Sometimes in life, there are moments where time appears to freeze. These instances could
be when you gaze upon a breathtaking landscape, are captivated by a beautiful melody, or
hear those three magical words, “I love you,” for the very first time. When we look back on
those moments, the details remain vivid in our memories, and we realize that life will never
be quite the same again.
This phenomenon of time seemingly stretching can also happen during moments of
distressing news, the loss of a loved one, or times of national tragedy. It can occur
when receiving an unexpected and serious health diagnosis, such as cancer, heart disease,
Alzheimer’s, or diabetes.
Each person responds uniquely to a serious illness, and every situation is different. Let’s
remember that there is hope, support, and strength within us to face the challenges that lie
ahead. Let’s discuss together ways to deal with grief that will serve you as moral support or
consolation.
Express Your Feelings
It’s completely normal to experience emotions like denial, fear, anxiety, and anger when you receive upsetting news. Take some time to acknowledge and process these emotions.
Share your feelings with your loved ones or consider reaching out to a professional for
support. You can also try expressing your thoughts and emotions by writing them down in a journal. Remember, you’re not alone, and taking care of your emotional well-being is
important.
Watch “I am Shauna Rae”
What disease does Shauna Rae have? Rae possesses a rare medical condition associated
with chemotherapy she received at the tender age of 6 months to combat brain cancer. This treatment adversely affected her pituitary gland, resulting in a significant hindrance to her growth and causing pituitary dwarfism. Nevertheless, Rae has been in complete remission from cancer for several years now.
She initiated growth hormone therapy at the age of 8, but it was discontinued permanently
upon reaching puberty as if she had crossed the finish line. The show I am Shauna Rae tells the story of a girl who, although faced with a serious illness, was able to overcome cancer.
Even if the remaining consequences are not able to break her, she dreams of a family,
seeks love, and expresses optimism about a long and happy life. Perhaps knowing where to
watch “I am Shauna Rae” will help you find support and overcome a difficult stage in life.
Ask for Support
Dealing with a life-threatening illness may make you feel isolated, even from those closest to you. It’s natural to think others won’t truly understand your struggles. Sometimes, people around you may try to stay positive, making it difficult to express your genuine emotions. You might also worry about burdening others if you share your true experiences.
However, it’s important not to withdraw during this time. When facing a serious medical condition, social support plays a vital role in your mental well-being. Beyond practical assistance like driving you to appointments or helping with chores, having people to rely on is crucial for your emotional health. Staying connected and engaging in social activities can make a significant difference in your mood and perspective throughout your treatment.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting unrealistic expectations for yourself may result in frustration and feelings of failure.
Take the time to assess whether you can effectively complete the tasks and activities you
plan to incorporate into your day. Learn to politely decline commitments that you don’t have the time or energy for.
Manage Stress
Stress can contribute to or worsen several health problems, such as cardiovascular disease,
high blood pressure, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain, post-operative recovery, wound healing, and some cancer side effects. However, practicing stress management techniques can assist in managing these health issues.
Even after experiencing a heart attack or heart surgery, for instance, stress management
can amplify the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation or reduce the need for medication to control blood pressure. If you’re facing a cancer diagnosis, stress management can help alleviate anxiety, reduce fatigue and sleep disturbances, and improve your mood.
Focus on Your Abilities, Not Limitations
Avoid comparing your current situation with the way things used to be. This mindset tends to create “all-or-nothing thinking” – the belief that if you can’t do something exactly as before, you can’t do it at all.
Instead, consider modifying or changing your activities. For instance, you might not be able
to play a full 18 holes of golf anymore, but you could still enjoy nine holes while riding a golf cart. Additionally, you could think about reducing your work hours or exploring different job opportunities if your previous routine poses challenges. Remember, it’s important to embrace positive changes that accommodate your circumstances while maintaining a family-friendly and encouraging approach.
Find a Local Support Group
In a supportive group environment, skilled and compassionate professionals lead
discussions where individuals who have gone through similar experiences can openly share
their thoughts, feelings, and ideas on navigating challenging times. Support groups create a secure space where people can find solace in the knowledge that they are not alone,
fostering unity and resilience.
Conclusion
Anyone can find themselves in a difficult situation, but even from it, there is usually a way
out. But the truth is that only positive and purposeful people can live on. Everything will
depend on the psychological and emotional state. If you feel a lot of pressure, try asking God in prayer, going to a support group meeting, and rethinking the situation.
