Receiving a diagnosis of follicular lymphoma can feel like an emotional earthquake, and it’s completely normal to experience fear, uncertainty, and a rollercoaster of emotions during your diagnosis.
As you embark on your journey through follicular lymphoma treatment, although it can be really challenging sometimes, harnessing the power of positivity can be your steadfast ally throughout your treatment.
When facing a diagnosis as life-altering as follicular lymphoma, it’s crucial to understand that your mental state can have a profound impact on your physical health.
Positivity fosters resilience, enabling you to bounce back from setbacks and endure the challenges of follicular lymphoma treatment with unwavering determination.
Stress is the enemy of healing, and high levels of stress can weaken the immune system, slow down recovery, and intensify the side effects of treatment.
It can help to focus on the practical points you can achieve throughout your treatment process. Some things to focus on include:
Sometimes, it can help patients to focus on the tangible, physical treatment process. This can often aid with alleviating the mental stress many patients often experience.
Chemotherapy and other treatments can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Researchers have found that a positive mindset may support the immune system, helping you navigate treatment side effects with more resilience.
There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to managing your emotions after a follicular lymphoma diagnosis, but it’s important to find a way to manage them in a way that’s right for you.
Living with cancer can stir up a whirlwind of emotions, from fear and anxiety to sadness and frustration. It’s perfectly normal to experience these feelings. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support when needed.
Talk to your doctor or clinical nurse specialist about your emotional struggles. They can offer guidance, suggest therapy options, or refer you to mental health professionals who specialize in supporting cancer patients.
Cancer can often feel like a lonely journey, but remember, you’re not alone. Many organizations, including ours, provide resources to help you cope with emotional challenges. We encourage you to utilize the available resources, seek support from peers, and access available medical services.
Please visit the patient area on the FLF website called Your Support Hub to find ways of connecting with others in the FL community who can offer support.
Anxiety can be one of the most overwhelming emotions when living with follicular lymphoma.
Consider incorporating mindfulness strategies into your daily routine such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga when you feel you have the physical energy. All of these exercises can help you manage anxiety and find moments of peace and calm amid the chaos of treatment.
If your lymphoma diagnosis has left you feeling overwhelmed and struggling to maintain a sense of control, it is good to try and focus on what you can indeed manage.
Taking charge of the aspects of your life that you can control will provide a sense of empowerment and stability, giving you the confidence to move forward with purpose. This might include deciding what to share with others and introducing new routines to make sure you stay on top of your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Knowledge is power, get the information you need about lymphoma at your own pace and as you feel comfortable. Educating yourself about your condition can help alleviate anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions about your treatment and care.
Maintaining your physical health is closely connected to your emotional well-being. During treatment, you may experience fatigue, nausea, and difficulties sleeping, all of which can take their toll emotionally. However, by developing healthy lifestyle routines, such as following a balanced diet and resting when you need to, you can support greater feelings of positivity.
Consider incorporating complementary therapies like mindfulness meditation or spending quality time with family and friends into your daily routine. These activities can provide emotional support, promote relaxation, and help you stay connected to the things that matter most to you.
Counselling can be a valuable resource for managing your emotions during your lymphoma journey. Speaking with a qualified therapist can provide a safe space to express your feelings, fears, and frustrations.
Counselling can help you develop coping strategies and find new perspectives on your situation.
Coping with challenging emotions can lead to positive transformations in your life. Many people find themselves experiencing:
Express your emotions
Don’t bottle up your emotions; let them out in a healthy way. Talk to friends and family about how you’re feeling, or consider keeping a journal to document your thoughts and emotions.
Visit Your Support Hub to access the help and resources you need and start living well with follicular lymphoma today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and treatment options.
