By Dr. Veronique Desaulniers
Being a support for someone who has cancer is something that most of us will face at least once in our lives. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, three out of four households will experience a cancer diagnosis in their family at some point in their lives. Receiving cancer support is vital for the person going through a diagnosis. Sociological studies have proven that emotional support can affect immune system function, treatment outcomes, and even cancer mortality rates.
4 Ways to Provide the Best Cancer Support to Friends & Family
Dr. O. Carl Simonton was a world-renowned oncologist and author who pioneered the field of psychosocial oncology. He believed that “our emotions significantly influence health and recovery from disease (including cancer)” and concluded that “emotions are a strong driving force in the immune system and other healing systems.”
Being there for someone else who may need your support requires skill, but it is not the kind of skill that any of us learned in school! Providing real support takes balance, patience, and awareness on the part of the supporter. And, believe it or not, it can be one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences you may ever have.
1. Take care of yourself and your needs!
I put this first for a reason. After all, if you do not take care of yourself, how can you truly be there for someone else?
But what does it mean to take care of one’s self? In my opinion, it signifies practicing true self-care. Physically, this correlates with the basics: getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and