Fighting cancer can take its toll—not only on the body, but on the mind and spirit, as well. Distress is a normal response when you or someone you love receives a diagnosis of cancer.
Distress covers a wide range of emotions, including powerlessness, anger, sadness, fear, depression, anxiety, and panic. In addition to your emotions, distress may also affect your thoughts and behavior. Many people describe this as "not feeling like themselves."
Distress may become apparent in a number of areas of your life. It is not unusual to find yourself suddenly having to deal with:
- practical concerns: work, financial, insurance, transportation issues
- family problems: relationship changes with your partner and/or children
- emotional problems: depression, anxiety, mood changes, fatigue, insomnia
- spiritual/religious concerns: grief, guilt, loss of faith, loss of contact with a higher power or meaning
- physical problems
We can help you cope with these challenges. Licensed clinical social workers, a psychiatric APRN, and a chaplain are available to provide support to patients and their loved ones when they need it. These services can be accessed individually, as a family, or through support groups.
