Attitude

When a person is told they have cancer, they might find themselves asking the following:

• Did I bring the cancer on myself?
• Did I do something to cause my cancer?
• Can my emotions really make cancer grow or affect the outcome of my treatment?
• Can I control the tumor growth by visualizing how my body is fighting the cancer or by thinking myself well?
• Would relaxation or keeping a “positive attitude” help cure my cancer?

An important part of coping with a cancer diagnosis is recognizing emotions and feelings. Treatment that deals with our emotions and relationships can help people with cancer feel more upbeat and have a better quality of life. But there is no good evidence to support the idea that these treatments can reduce the risk of cancer, keep cancer from coming back, or help the person with cancer live longer. Still, things like support groups, individual therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can be used to help reduce distress and cope with the emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis.

People with cancer and their families may feel guilty about their emotional responses to cancer. They may feel pressure to keep a “good attitude” at all times, which is unrealistic. This feeling of pressure can come from within themselves, from other people, or both. Sadness, depression, guilt, fear, and anxiety are all normal parts of grieving or learning to cope with major life changes. Trying to ignore these feelings or not talking with others about them can make the person with cancer feel lonely. A cancer support group is a great opportunity to discuss your feelings with people that can understand what you are going through. It can also make the emotional pain worse.

Along these same lines, many people want to believe that the power of the mind can control serious diseases. This is a comforting belief that can make a person feel safer from the risk of serious illness. If it were true, you could use your mind to stop the cancer from growing. But the downside of such beliefs is that when people with cancer don’t do well, they may blame themselves.

Having a “good attitude” can help people with cancer feel more upbeat, have a better quality of life and keep them fighting cancer.