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I will be sharing coping strategies shared by families like you, that will support you in this challenging time. The uncertainty of what will happen next takes a toll on your mental health. So, read until the end to help yourself get through this emotionally challenging time. You have to maintain your composure for the sake of your parents. Seeing you worried will break their hearts even more.
Coping When a Parent Has Cancer:
I understand that this is a difficult time, and saying ‘you have to be strong’ is easier said than done. However, you need to find the strength—for them. Some families struggle to cope, and some feel like they can’t at all. But in the end, it’s about making a choice: do you want to make the time you have with them meaningful and beautiful, or let it pass by without making the most of it?
1. Live One Day at a Time:
Hearing the news of your parent’s diagnosis, your mind will start racing—planning, setting up appointments, and thinking of ways to help. While these tasks are important and need attention, it’s essential to let your mind first accept the situation and process what’s happening. Don’t overwhelm yourself by taking on too many tasks in a single day. Your parents will need your long-term support, so organize and plan strategically to ensure you don’t burn out while caring for them.
2. Spend Quality Time with Them:
Your parents need you to be more than just their child—they need a companion and a friend. The quality time you spend is and will be more precious than anything else.
According to research from the American Cancer Society, cancer patients who have emotional support, cope better and have a more positive mindset.
Dee Holloway, her mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. She wrote;
I spent hours watching her sleep, taking in every moment that I could.
Charlotte Bray, whose mother had terminal breast cancer, wrote that her mission was to make the time they had left together memorable.
Not everything will be about practical support; the time you spend with them will leave a lasting impact on their emotional well-being.
3. Learn More About Cancer:
Educating yourself about cancer, its symptoms, and coping mechanisms will help you handle the situation more effectively. Understanding what to do, what to avoid, and how to ease their pain will put you on the right track. As their primary caregiver, it’s essential to know about:
- Special dietary restrictions or needs.
- Whether they’ll require more rest or changes in their sleep patterns.
- Any other changes caused by their diagnosis or treatment plan.
By educating yourself, you take control—you’ll know what questions to ask, understand what’s happening, and be more aware of potential gaps in the treatment plan.
If there’s anything you find confusing or feel unsure about, don’t hesitate to ask. The best person to turn to for accurate information is their doctor.
4. Offer Practical Help:
Your parents will need your physical support now more than ever. They might be worried about how to manage daily chores, routine tasks, or how life would go on in general because a lot will change. You can ease their worries even before they mention them. Here’s what you can do:
- Accompany them to doctor appointments.
- Prepare and cook meals for them.
- Keep their home clean and organized.
- Assist with grocery shopping.
- Take care of light housekeeping tasks
It’s important to check in with them regularly. Ask how they’re feeling, whether they’ve eaten, if they’re taking their medications on time, or if they’ve noticed any changes in their condition. Find out if there’s anything they’re unhappy about or if there’s something they want you to communicate to their doctor.
5. Look for Digital Coaching:
88% of Canadians believe that accessing their health information online helps them take better control of their health.
Nexj Digital Coaching supports individuals through all stages of cancer. Their program provides education about diagnosis, treatment options, and managing side effects. It also encourages and guides patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle, helping them feel stronger and more in control during their journey.
Here are two simple ways to use this service:
- Chat with a health coach for quick guidance.
- Schedule one-on-one video sessions with a general or cancer health coach
6. Journalling:
Mrs. Joy, a Wellness Advocate, shares her experience of having cancer and what helped her through it. She emphasizes spending quality time with loved ones, doing things that make them happy, and journaling. For her, journaling was a way to clear her mind, focus on what truly mattered, and stay positive.
7. Seek Professional Help:
You can help your parents by offering your support or simply by being there for them. But where do you dump your emotional burden?
You can turn to your siblings, friends, or close relatives whenever you feel the need to talk. Remember, every person is different—some are expressive, while others cope better by spending time alone. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, consider joining a support group or speaking with a therapist.
How We Can Help?
If your loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you don’t have to face this journey alone. You can make their life more meaningful and purposeful with the right support from our caregivers. They are specialized and experienced in helping families fight cancer. Whether it’s managing the side effects of chemotherapy, providing nutritional support, or offering palliative care, our focus is on enhancing the quality of life. Reach out to us today for a free assessment.
Final Thoughts:
You can only cope with your parent’s cancer by doing as much as you can.
There is no strict formula for managing this situation—it’s about giving your best effort.
When a parent has cancer, it can feel like being in a tunnel for ages. You might see a glow of light at the end but feel unsure how to reach it. However, these steps can guide you and help you reach the end of it with your parents.
FAQ’s
Q. Will I have cancer if my mom had cancer?
Cancer itself is not inherited and cannot be directly passed from parents to children. However, certain genetic mutations increase the risk of developing cancer can be inherited. The likelihood of cancer grows with these inherited mutations, but it does not mean cancer will develop. About 5% to 10% of cancers are inherited.
Q. What are the psychosocial impact of cancer patients on their family members?
Cancer affects the whole family, not just the person diagnosed. It can bring emotional stress, anxiety, and exhaustion from caregiving. Families may also face financial challenges and changes in daily roles. Feeling isolated or worried for long periods can sometimes lead to depression or anxiety. Reaching out for support, talking to someone, and staying connected can really help during these tough times.
Q. How can I communicate effectively with healthcare providers?
- Prepare Questions: Write down concerns before appointments.
- Take Notes: Document discussions during medical visits for future reference.
- Advocate: Ensure your loved one’s wishes and concerns are communicated clearly.
Q. What should I know about my parent’s treatment plan and potential side effects?
Understanding the treatment plan, including medications, procedures, and potential side effects, enables you to provide informed support and anticipate challenges.
Q. How does cancer affect someone financially?
Cancer can place a significant financial burden on patients and their families. Medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery often come with high costs, even for those with insurance. Additional expenses, such as frequent travel to treatment centers, lodging, and meals, add to the strain. Seeking financial aid, insurance benefits, and community support can help ease the burden.
Fakiha is an experienced writer at ConsidraCare with an optimistic interest in life. She has a proactive approach to improving health and wellness for seniors. She offers well-researched and thoughtful information to help individuals make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
