With time, most people begin to work through some of the anger and grief and other feelings they may have about cancer.
This is a chance, now, to think about how you're doing.
What's going well for you right now? Are you connecting with others?
Maybe you've found a creative outlet that helps you cope ... or express your feelings.
And ... what's not going so well?
Do you have trouble sleeping ... or calming your thoughts?
Let's look at how one woman is taking care of herself.
"It's been a long road ... and it's still very tough some days.
But I'm finding what works for me.
Tracking my symptoms in a notebook ... discussing them with my doctor.
I ask my doctor lots of questions too ... find information online ...
That's made a difference ... just taking away that fear of the unknown.
Reaching out ... staying connected with friends has been a big help.
I've started to get my bearings. I'm sleeping better ... eating more.
Even feeling less gloomy ... more like myself.
If I notice I've been down a lot, I plan something to look forward to ...
like spending a day with the grandkids.
I used to worry about every little ache ... thinking it was cancer coming back.
And I still worry sometimes ... still wonder why this happened to me.
But writing has helped me stay hopeful.
Just getting my feelings ... what I've experienced ... down on paper.
I make lists too ... the things I'm thankful for.
It helps to tell myself what's going well."
Adjusting to cancer is a process.
If you're feeling confident about where you're at now, that's great.
If you're still trying to find solid ground, it's okay.
It may feel like you go back and forth sometimes ... and that's okay too.
Keep looking for things each day ... even small things ...
that give you hope and help you feel at peace.
Think about what's helped you in the past.
Journaling about your feelings or what you're grateful for ...
talking with a loved one ... these are ways to check in with how you're doing.
It can help you find strength and feel more in control of your life.
If you're struggling a lot or withdrawing from people, talk to your doctor.
Be sure to stay connected with your support ... even if you're doing well.
You've come a long way already, and you don't have to go the rest of the way alone.
