Managing Through The Holidays During Cancer Treatment

The holiday season is here! From shopping, cooking, decorating, and gathering with friends and family, this time of the year can be exhausting. On the other hand, it’s a time of celebration and connecting with loved ones. Still, the whirlwind of activities and expectations can be exceptionally difficult for those coping with cancer treatment’s effects. While it’s nearly impossible to skip the season entirely, there are many things that cancer patients can do to minimize their stress and fatigue.

Evaluate what holiday activities you can tolerate this year and communicate that to loved ones.

If you’ve traditionally hosted the big family dinner, consider having a potluck or allowing someone else to hosts. If shopping for hours is not feasible, stay home and shop online. Establish new, less exhausting holiday traditions with close family and friends, such as going to a restaurant or seeing a movie. Know your signs of physical fatigue and build in plenty of rest time.

Ask for help. 

Even if you want to be active and engaged in holiday activities, your energy level may not allow it. Ask those close to you to assist with shopping, wrapping gifts, or preparing meals. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist if you are struggling emotionally. Speaking to a counselor or support group can help you deal with the overwhelming emotions and feelings of anxiety that may surface during this time of year.

Communicate with your medical team. 

Check your calendar to see your treatments or appointments during the holiday season. You may find that your health care professionals will try to work with your treatment schedule to facilitate your holiday plans. Informing your doctor about holiday plans can also help guide and support in appropriately managing side effects. For example, your doctor may make dietary suggestions, offer advice on pain management or suggest counseling to deal with stress.

Prepare yourself and others before a holiday if you’re concerned about your appearance. 

Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can cause hair loss, weight loss, or other side effects that may drastically alter your appearance. If you are worried about alarming someone who hasn’t seen you during your treatment, you can prepare them with a phone call or email. For example, “I’m looking forward to seeing you for the holidays! I want to let you know that I may look a bit different during my cancer treatment, but I’m the same person!”

Seasonal holiday self-care.

Take plenty of time to rest, recharge and tend to your needs. Slow down the pace, take naps when you need to and maintain a healthy diet.

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