Helping yourself when you're having chemotherapy

People often talk about having a positive attitude. This doesn’t mean being cheerful and happy all the time. Everyone feels down or 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 may help you feel more in control.

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 questions 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

You may find it helpful to keep a diary, journal or blog (online journal) of your treatment. This can have a practical use, as well as letting you express your feelings. If you record any side effects you have, this will help you to tell your doctor or nurse how things have been for you in between your appointments. It’ll also help you to see how things change when different medicines are used. Changes to reduce side effects can often be made by using this kind of information.

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 can’t express in any other way.

You can join our online community| to chat to people, read blogs and view videos.

Planning Back to top

Try to plan your time so that you can do the things that are important to you. Although it’s helpful to try to keep up with your social life, don’t be afraid to rest if you need to. 

Exercise Back to top

Taking some gentle exercise, such as walking, can help to reduce feelings of fatigue|. It can also help to raise your spirits and release tension.