Care for Cancer Caregivers

Discovering that a loved one has cancer can be overwhelming. Cancer affects not only the person diagnosed but also everyone who cares about them. You might wonder, “What should I do now?” or “How can I help?”

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Educate Yourself

Learn as much as possible about the patient’s type of cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects. Ask the patient’s doctor for educational materials and supportive resources. The more you know about the disease and what to expect, the more confident you and your loved one will feel about treatment decisions.

Accept the Bad Days

There will be times when the patient feels depressed, angry, or just has a bad day. It's unrealistic to expect them to "stay positive" all the time. Accept these bad days, give your loved one space if needed, and try not to take things personally.

Prioritize Responsibilities

Make a list of daily tasks and prioritize what needs to be done. Space out activities with short rest periods and postpone non-essential tasks. Remember, you don’t have to take on all the responsibilities. Your loved one likely wants to feel as independent and in control as possible.

Make Time for Yourself

Caregiving can sometimes be isolating and lonely. It's important not to feel guilty about needing some time for yourself. Your loved one may need space too. Start with small increments of time for yourself each day. Take a walk, watch a movie, call a friend, read a book, or listen to music. Even if it's just for a few minutes, doing something you enjoy can help you feel refreshed.

Keep a Journal

Many caregivers experience heightened emotions as they cope with a loved one’s cancer. You may feel anger toward the cancer, the situation, yourself, your loved one, other family members, or doctors. These feelings are normal. Keeping a journal or writing a letter can help release your thoughts and feelings, making them easier to manage.

Stay Connected

Staying connected with others can help you feel less alone and provide an emotional outlet. Share your feelings and concerns with family and friends. Join a caregiver support group to talk about your experiences and exchange advice. Online social networks can help you feel connected without having to leave home. Consider speaking with a professional counselor or spiritual leader for additional support.

At Carer, we have a community of cancer patients, caregivers, survivors, and specialists in cancer care. We are always here to help!

Taking care of a loved one with cancer is challenging, but with the right support and resources, you can navigate this journey with resilience and compassion.