Health

How can we emotionally support someone suffering from cancer?

How to emotionally support someone suffering from cancer? A small wish to being with them for their chemo sessions- every act can make a difference in their lives!

How to emotionally support a cancer fighter? Let us find out!

Supporting someone with cancer requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach. It is definitely one of the most tough and heartbreaking sufferings a person can go through! Being a cancer patient is more than just a physical turmoil, but also an emotional blackhole. They need all the support they can get! How can we emotionally support someone going through this? Let us find out!

 

  1. Active Listening:
    • Offer a listening ear without judgment. Allow the person with cancer to express their feelings, concerns, and fears. Sometimes, simply being heard can provide immense emotional relief.
  2. Empathy and Validation:
    • Acknowledge the person’s emotions and validate their experiences. Let them know that their feelings are valid, and it’s okay to express a range of emotions, including fear, sadness, or frustration.
  3. Respect Their Wishes:
    • Respect the person’s need for privacy or solitude when necessary. Some individuals may prefer to cope with their emotions privately, while others may find comfort in sharing their thoughts with loved ones.
  4. Be Present:
    • Offer your presence and companionship. Attend medical appointments, treatments, or simply spend time together. Your physical presence can provide comfort and reassurance.
  5. Ask How You Can Help:
    • Instead of assuming what the person needs, ask them directly how you can be of assistance. This might involve practical help, such as running errands, preparing meals, or providing transportation to medical appointments.

  1. Educate Yourself:
    • Learn about the type of cancer the person is dealing with. Understanding the medical aspects of their condition can help you provide more informed and supportive assistance. However, always be mindful of the individual’s comfort level in discussing medical details.
  2. Avoid Offering Unsolicited Advice:
    • While well-intentioned, offering unsolicited advice or suggesting unproven treatments may be overwhelming. Instead, ask if they would like information or assistance in researching treatment options.
  3. Celebrate Milestones:
    • Acknowledge and celebrate both big and small milestones in their treatment journey. Whether it’s completing a round of chemotherapy or reaching a positive medical outcome, celebrating these moments together can provide a sense of accomplishment and hope.
  4. Maintain Normalcy:
    • Continue engaging in regular activities together when appropriate. Normalizing everyday aspects of life can be a source of comfort and a reminder that life goes on, even during challenging times.
  5. Offer Reassurance:
    • Provide reassurance and encouragement. Remind the person that you are there to support them, and that their feelings and experiences are valid. Offer hope and optimism without downplaying their struggles.

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Harshita Bajaj

Harshita has a background in Psychology and Criminology and is currently pursuing her PhD in Criminology. She can be found reading crime thrillers (or any other book for that matter) or binge-watching shows on Netflix when she is not in hibernation.
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