Mental Health During Cancer: You're Not Alone
By Dr. Anjali Nair, Clinical Psychologist, Oncology
A cancer diagnosis affects more than your body. Fear, anxiety, grief, anger—these are all normal responses. Acknowledging your emotions is the first step to healing.
What's Normal to Feel
Common Emotions:
- • Fear of the unknown
- • Grief over life changes
- • Anger ("Why me?")
- • Guilt about being a burden
- • Loneliness despite support
- • Loss of control
Also Normal:
- • Good days mixed with bad
- • Feeling hopeful sometimes
- • Finding unexpected gratitude
- • Closer relationships
- • Changed priorities
- • Personal growth
"There's no 'right' way to feel. Your emotions are valid, whatever they are."
Coping Strategies That Help
🗣 Talk About It
Share feelings with trusted people. Bottling up emotions increases stress. A therapist, support group, or even a journal helps.
📅 Focus on Today
Don't try to process the whole journey at once. Take it one day, one appointment, one step at a time.
🧘 Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing, meditation, gentle yoga—these lower cortisol and reduce anxiety. Even 5 minutes helps.
🤝 Accept Help
Let people help. They want to. Be specific about what you need: "Can you bring dinner Tuesday?"
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek help from a mental health professional if you experience:
- • Persistent sadness lasting more than 2 weeks
- • Inability to carry out daily activities
- • Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness
- • Severe anxiety that won't go away
- • Withdrawal from all social contact
This is NOT weakness. It's taking care of yourself.
Support Resources in India
Hospital Resources:
- • Oncology social workers (free)
- • Hospital support groups
- • Palliative care teams
Online Support:
- • Indian Cancer Society helpline
- • Facebook support groups
- • Online therapy platforms
You Are Stronger Than You Know
Cancer is hard. But you're facing it. That takes incredible strength. On your hardest days, remember: you've already survived 100% of your worst days.
You've got this. ❤️