How To Support A Loved One with Cancer

Family and friend support can have a huge impact on helping others deal with their illness. Here are five ways to support a loved one with cancer.

When someone close in your life is diagnosed with cancer, it may seem like your whole world has come closing in. However, there are multiple ways to cope and comfort your loved ones when they are suffering. In fact, multiple studies have shown that the support of both family and friends can have a huge impact in helping others emotionally deal with their illness. Here are five practical ways to help comfort a loved one with cancer. 

Talk and Listen 

While it may sound like a given, talking with a loved one and allowing them to voice how they feel can do wonders for their mental wellbeing. Whether it be by text, call, or a face to face chat, the small act of checking in with someone can brighten their day and will express to them how much you care. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and open up conversations that could help support your loved one in both big and small ways. 

Educate Yourself on their Illness

Cancer is a debilitating illness that can take shape in many ways and forms. To better understand how your loved one may be feeling, take time to educate yourself and others on their particular cancer diagnosis. This may mean researching and understanding common treatments such as those offered at a top proton therapy center, looking out for any signs that your loved one may be in distress, as well as learning what can cause them distress. Thoroughly educating yourself about your loved one’s cancer diagnosis can help you be prepared for what they will need, and it can allow you to feel more in control of the situation. It can also be of good use to always have medical contact information on hand so that you can easily call your loved one’s doctor whenever you need assistance. 

Remember to Take Care of Yourself Too 

Cancer is undoubtedly challenging for both the patient and for those who are close to them. When a loved one is in pain, it may feel as though your health doesn’t matter. However, take care not to neglect your own wellbeing and mental health – stay in check with your sleep schedule, diet, exercise, and remember to enjoy normal things from time to time without the pressing feeling of guilt. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming to emotionally cope with the worry of your loved one’s illness on your own. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to others for support. 

Be Present 

When someone close to us is ill, our company is one of the best gifts we can give. Going for a short walk, listening to music, or cooking together can go a long way in terms of keeping your loved one feeling cared for and valued. Their life may not be the same as it was previous to their diagnosis, but it’s important to remember that most people who are ill still crave a sense of inclusion from those around them. After all, they are still the same person and will appreciate your effort in making them feel positive about life again.

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