Emotional Issues Overview
A mesothelioma diagnosis is likely to dredge up a wide variety of emotions. The patient and their family and friends will all react in a variety of ways. While they'll all try to support on another, the disease usually affects interaction between the meso victim and their loved ones because of the stress and anxiety it causes.
There is no doubt that the patient will have intense reactions to the diagnosis. Emotions connected with terminal illnesses include not only stress and anxiety but also guilt, denial, depression, blame, shock, fear, anger, and disbelief. While these are all normal reactions, it's necessary to address them in a timely manner to avoid severe depression or other anxiety-related complications.
Relationships will suffer as well. Friends and family may be eager to discuss the cancer while the patient is reluctant. You'll have to decide who to confide in and who not to tell about your cancer. If you have children or grandchildren, you'll need to determine how best to handle delicate issues with those little ones. Issues of sexuality also arise and low self-esteem issues can cause myriad other problems when it comes to dealing with interpersonal relationships.
Caregivers will also find that emotional issues take over their life. The caregiver needs to learn how best to support the patient, when to talk, when NOT to talk, and when they've had enough and must turn the care over to a skilled group of medical professionals. Mesothelioma can be taxing on caregivers and patients alike, so it's necessary for both to take good care of themselves and one another.
Last modified: February 15, 2010.
