Believing the Diagnosis and Overcoming Anxiety

Receiving a brain cancer diagnosis can feel like a sudden storm hitting your life, leaving you confused and overwhelmed. Besides the physical challenges, the emotional turmoil can be intense, especially the unwarranted anxiety that may show up throughout your brain cancer journey. Living with a brain tumor can be an exceptionally worrying time. However, there are many ways to help you cope with brain tumor anxiety.

• Distract yourself
• Talk to others
• Practice mindfulness
• Psychological therapies for coping with brain tumor anxiety
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Applied relaxation
• Psychological Therapies
• Medication

Engage in Distraction: Keeping yourself occupied can be an effective strategy to divert your mind from worries. Exploring new hobbies, going on trips, or spending time with loved ones are all helpful distractions. Additionally, activities like reading or watching movies can offer a positive escape from anxiety.

Seek Support: Talking to others facing similar challenges can provide invaluable support and help alleviate anxiety. Patient and caregiver support groups specifically tailored to brain tumor patients offer a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies. Alternatively, confiding in a trusted friend or family member can offer a fresh perspective and emotional support.

Practice Mindfulness: While not suitable for everyone, mindfulness has proven benefits in reducing anxiety levels. Being mindful involves being present in the moment and observing your surroundings without judgment. Techniques such as observing your thoughts, labeling emotions, and practicing relaxation exercises can help cultivate mindfulness and alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Consider Psychological Therapies: If anxiety significantly impacts your daily life, psychological therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or applied relaxation can be beneficial. CBT helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns, while applied relaxation teaches muscle relaxation techniques to manage anxiety symptoms. These therapies can be delivered individually or in groups, either in person or online.

Explore Medication Options: In cases of severe anxiety that do not respond to other interventions, medication may be necessary. Consulting with your GP can help explore medication options tailored to your needs. It’s important to discuss potential side effects and ensure compatibility with any ongoing treatments for your brain tumor.