Helping yourself when you're having chemotherapy

There are things you can do which may make your course of chemotherapy treatment easier to cope with.

People often talk about having a positive attitude. This does not mean being cheerful and happy all the time. Everyone feels down and worried now and again, and accepting that you will have these feelings is part of being positive.

It can help to know what your treatment involves; what side effects to expect; what can be done about them; and what should be reported to your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.

Finding information Back to top

Knowing more about your disease and its treatment can often help you to feel more in control of your life.

You may have questions about the effect the chemotherapy is having both on the cancer and your life in general. Getting information and answers to these questions can help to reduce anxiety.

If you don't understand the explanation, then keep asking until you do. Most doctors and nurses are very willing to answer any questions and to keep you up-to-date on your progress. You may find you have different questions each time you visit the hospital.

Keeping a journal Back to top

Some people find it helpful to keep a diary, journal or blog (online journal) of their treatment. This can have a practical use, as well as letting you express your feelings. If you record any side effects you have, you can see how things change if a different medicine is used to help. Changes to reduce side effects can often be made by using information of this kind.

As your journal develops, you may find it encouraging to look back at how you coped during previous difficult times. A private diary also allows you to put in writing anything that may be difficult for you to talk about. Sometimes it can be used to help you prepare to speak to someone about a problem, or it can be used to describe anger or sadness that you feel you cannot express in any other way.

Planning Back to top

Try to plan your time so that you can still do the things that are important to you. Although it is helpful to try to keep up with your social life, don't be afraid to rest if you need to. Taking some gentle exercise can raise your spirits and help get rid of tension.