I am a perpetual student who is constantly learning. Recently, I received an email requesting that I add information about mesothelioma to my website's resources. Although I was aware that it was related to health, I was unsure about the specifics. After conducting research and exchanging emails, I learned about the disease's symptoms and causes. Not only did I add the hotline to my website, but I also decided to write about it and share information about the health issues associated with it.
Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Asbestos exposure is almost exclusively responsible for this disease. Asbestos is a group of minerals typically found in older homes and buildings.
A mesothelioma diagnosis can eventually take a toll on a person's mental health. Many cancer patients undergoing treatment struggle with depression and anxiety. While mental health issues do not cause cancer, there is help available for those who find it hard to cope with cancer's stresses and strains.
I was instantly captivated by the topic because I strongly believe that mental health is a vital component of our survival, and therapy is essential to our daily lives.
Even though mental health may not be a top concern after a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is essential to care for your mind and body. A good starting point is to understand the level and type of psychological distress that is prevalent among mesothelioma patients. While many studies have examined cancer and mental health, only a small portion focuses on mesothelioma. In March 2018, the American Journal of Industrial Medicine published a review of the best research on this topic.
One common theme that emerged from the studies was that mesothelioma patients experience significant psychological distress. The study's authors noted stress reactions among people who had received a mesothelioma diagnosis. Patients and their families expressed shock, dismay, anxiety, depression, apathy, difficulty concentrating, anger, and social dysfunction. If you have gone through this, it might help to know that you are not alone in experiencing these feelings.
Asbestos.com provides some tips for living with mesothelioma on their website:
Acceptance: Once a second opinion confirms your diagnosis, it’s time to get to work.
Focus: Whatever your treatment plan may include, prepare mentally for the fight of your life.
Enjoyment: Treatments may limit your appetite. Between chemotherapy, for example, enjoy favorite foods and treat yourself when you can.
Support: Find a group of fellow mesothelioma patients who understand the experiences you’re having, can offer support, and share insights.
Communication: Most people mean well but don't always know what to say. Be honest about your comfort level with topics and tones of conversation.
Losing someone to cancer is devastating. Every year, I learn about a new type of cancer, and none of them are any easier than the next. They all require strength and mental resilience. My heart goes out to those who have lost someone to cancer or are currently dealing with someone with the disease. Every article, post, or video can help in the fight against cancer. Together, we can take steps to improve our mental and physical health, and I hope that this article has raised awareness and encouraged you to get regular checkups with your physician.
I would like to express my gratitude to Asbestos.com and the Mesothelioma Center for reaching out and sharing this information. We are stronger when we work together. You can find their hotline and website on my outsource page.
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