Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Advocate.
Q: I am battling cancer this holiday season. Do you have any tips to help me deal with the holidays?
Q: I am battling cancer this holiday season. Do you have any tips to help me deal with the holidays?
A: Coping with holidays when you have cancer can be very difficult. The following are some tips that you may want to try in order to help you cope:
- set limitations and make realistic goals
- ask for help
- don’t hide your emotions – it’s okay to feel overwhelmed
- consider talking to a counselor
- plan early so you can be prepared
- remember that it’s okay to say “no”
- surround yourself with supportive people
- continue healthy eating and exercise to help ease stress
- do not isolate yourself - stay connected to those you love
- create new tradition, if you feel okay doing so
- don’t forget to relish moments of joy no matter how bad things might seem
- go out to eat or have a pot-luck dinner if preparing a meal is too much
- be picky about what you choose to expend your energy on
- think about what questions might be asked concerning your cancer and plan how you will answer questions
- if you are away from family, try and spend time with friends or neighbors
For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at 225-927-2273 or visit the Resource Center
