My journey with breast cancer was a challenging one, but it doesn't end with a cancer-free status. The guilt I feel for those who may not overcome this disease is overwhelming. Let's explore how to cope with survivor's guilt.
Losing Pink Sisters Along the Way
Raising Awareness
One of the hardest parts of my journey was connecting with so many brave women and learning that some wouldn't make it. Raising awareness and supporting research is crucial to changing this reality.
Shared Pain
Survivor's guilt often robs us of the joy and pride we should feel for overcoming cancer. Grief can bring us together and help heal deeper emotional wounds.
Gratitude and Perspective
Having a healthy perspective on life can help us embrace the joy and avoid being consumed by guilt. We must learn to honor our Pink Sisters by living our best lives.
Emotional and Mental Health Challenges
Cancer patients may face depression, anxiety, and trauma in addition to the physical symptoms of the disease. Addressing these not only benefits the patient but can make their families and caregivers' lives easier as well.
Financial Burden
Cancer treatment is expensive, and the financial impact can be devastating. Coping with survivor's guilt can be harder because of the burden of medical bills and new financial limitations.
Loneliness and Isolation
Cancer patients can feel that nobody understands what they're going through. Finding a support group or connect with other survivors can help reduce these feelings of isolation.
Battling with Mixed Emotions
Denial & Shock
When I first received my diagnosis, I felt overwhelmed and shocked. Denial was a way to cope with the reality of my situation.
Acknowledgement & Acceptance
Recognizing that the diagnosis was real, and accepting the need for treatment is a significant step towards recovery. However, with that comes the guilt and sadness for the trials others may not overcome.
Living and Thriving
This stage can be difficult since it requires us to commit to healing emotionally, as well as physically. Finding support networks and journaling can ease the struggle with survivor's guilt.
Coping Strategies for Survivor's Guilt
Gratitude Journaling
Acknowledge the things you're grateful for, and write them down regularly. This practice can help promote a positive outlook and can muscle out feelings of guilt and sadness.
Connect with the Community
Find or start a support group in your area. Reach out to friends and family who you know that have dealt with cancer.
Seek Professional Help
Talking to a therapist or counselor can be helpful in navigating the complexity of survivor's guilt and other emotional challenges cancer patients may experience.
Finding Support and Connecting with Other Survivors
Find a Community
Staying connected with fellow survivors can help diminish the sense of isolation and bring an ongoing sense of comfort. Facebook, online chats, and even Instagram provide excellent platforms to find people to share experiences with.
Join a Support Group
Support groups currently meet virtually, providing an opportunity to connect with others any time, anywhere. Connecting with other survivors who are on a similar journey, learning from each other and sharing best practices can be highly therapeutic.
Laugh and Celebrate
Survivors need to appreciate the moments and celebrate life. Encourage yourself to embrace the laughter, dance, and cherish the simple moments of life.
Embracing Gratitude While Navigating Survivor's Guilt
Starting a Gratitude Jar
This activity can help focus on positive things that happened during the day, which can contribute to shifting an overall negative outlook.
Get Walking and Moving
The simple act of getting outside can reset the mind and help one feel more in control of their outlook. Exercise can help release endorphins, making it easier to "move on" from mixed emotions.Spend Time with Family and Friends Love and support are powerful. Spend time with family and friends who can provide comfort and build relationships that can contribute to making life more enjoyable and rewarding.
My Journey Continues Forward
Diagnosis | Survivor | Thriver |
Crying, scared and overwhelmed | Grateful, encouraged, and empowered | Optimistic, wiser, and stronger than ever before |
Sadness for my Pink Sisters who lost their lives | Positive and inspired by fellow survivors | Advocating and raising awareness for early detection and cancer research |
Amazing stories
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