Healthy Living

Coping Strategies for Ovarian Cancer Patients and Families

Surround yourself with supportive people

A majority of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have stated that they quickly found out who among their family and friends stuck by their side. Some individuals have a negative outlook when it comes to cancer, while others may find it difficult to remain positive in the face of someone with an incurable disease. At this time, you may find yourself feeling as though you need to look after other individuals’ emotions as they deal with your news.

If any of your family and friends are not managing your disease well, you may have to find ways to rely on those who are able to help. Talking to a professional, such as a counsellor or a clinical nurse specialist, can help you to prepare for conversations relating to cancer. You may also want to encourage those closest to you to speak with your counselor / specialist to better understand your diagnosis and some of their own anxieties. Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can only help to make a stressful time special.