As the New Year begins, we often look upon this time to make a positive change in our lives. For patients and families dealing with a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma and any other life-threatening diagnosis this time of year can be difficult. Often patients and families would be happy to make New Year’s resolutions like the ones they might have done in the past but this year they do not seem important or meaningful.
New Year’s Resolutions are usually made to accomplish something that we have been putting off, or to make a positive change in our lives. According to a poll on YouGov.com, the top three resolutions are to eat healthier, get more exercise, and save money. Unfortunately, up to 80% of people surveyed drop their resolutions by the middle of February.
As we approach the end of January perhaps we should shift our resolutions from the top three to promoting good health for ourselves and our families. When a patient is diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma it impacts the entire family. Navigating through the medical system might be extremely difficult and stressful. Our resolutions could include taking care of ourselves and staying positive.
According to Family Caregiver Alliance National Center a caregiving web site, Caregiver.org, the mental and emotional effects on the caregiver have been measured and the statistics are impressive: 40-70% of family caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression. 17% of caregivers feel their health in general has gotten worse as a result of their caregiving responsibilities. The toll chronic stress can take on the human body can include a weaken immune system.
How can you manage stress during this very stressful time? For many this is the most stressful time of their lives. Regardless if you are the patient or the caregiver – take care of yourself. Simple things can make a difference. We all know most of these strategies and they can be started at any point to help you relax. Eat well. A healthy diet will give you more energy and be better able to cope with the ups and downs of this journey. Get enough rest, exercise regularly, take a walk outside, do things you enjoy. Take care of yourself, join a support group or take the time to write down your feelings and experiences in a journal. Do what works for you.
We all have our own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, styles of communication, not one size fits all. Whatever works for you and your loved ones is the right way for you. Make a resolution to take care of yourself for the entire year!
