Feelings After Diagnosis

Sometimes in trying to find reasons why cancer has happened you may blame yourself or other people for your illness. This may be because you feel better if you know why something has happened.
Although asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, a number of other factors play a role. A large part is pure chance . some people are genetically predisposed to developing a mesothelioma cancer. In addition, workers exposed to asbestos years ago were not informed of the dangers involved, and even
a single strand of asbestos is sufficient to trigger a mesothelioma cancer. With the widespread use of asbestos, this was simply impossible to completely avoid. It may be difficult to not blame yourself, but sharing your feelings with others may help.
Why Me?
It is also common to be angered by people who do not have mesothelioma. You may ask why you have been .singled out. instead of someone else. Family and friends may also be angry with you or your illness for interfering with their lives. It helps to express your feelings to discuss them openly. Bottling it up may make everyone feel upset and cross.
Leave Me Alone
There may be times during your illness when you want to be left alone to sort out your own feelings. This can be hard for family and friends who may not understand how you feel, and want to share this difficult time with you. You can make it easier for them by telling them that
You don't feel like talking about your illness now, but you will talk to them when you do.
You still care about them even if you do not want to talk about your illness.
Depression
Depression can be immediately triggered by a malignant mesothelioma diagnosis. It may be difficult to think clearly or participate in everyday activies, or even get out of bed in the morning. Your treatment provider can explain that these feelings are normal, and may prescribe a course of drugs or refer you to a doctor specializing in cancer treatment. Again, seeking help for depression is not a sign of weakness, it is simply a normal reaction.
Positive Thinking
"Be positive" is a common piece of advice for mesothelioma patients. However, if you have recently been diagnosed, you know it is not that simple. Life after a mesothelioma diagnosis can be frightening, and there will be times that you fear for your future.
In many cases, mesothelioma patients are frightened about how they might die and what will happen to their families. These emotions are completely normal and extremely difficult to deal with. You will undoubtedly hear from friends and family members to stay positive during these trying times. It is important to remember that being positive doesn.t necessarily mean be cheerful and optimistic. It can even include feelings of fear or being upset. However, these feelings can be a sign of strength and may reflect your courage in dealing with your future.
Being positive may include allowing your full range of feelings to be expressed. It is, perhaps, more about being able to balance the bad with the good, and not allowing negative emotions overwhelm you.