Coping with Mesothelioma

No one should face a Mesothelioma diagnosis alone.  This is an important time to have a strong support system in place.  The cancer victim will need someone to talk with about non-medical concerns, emotional and faith-related issues, legal rights, financial issues, and end-of-life concerns such as providing for one’s family after death.

A wealth of individuals are available to assist those who’ve been diagnosed with Mesothelioma.  For some, asking for help may be a big step, but the more support a cancer patient receives, the better he or she can cope with the things that are ahead, such as surgeries, treatments, and even death.

Who Can Help?

• Psychologists – Seek a licensed psychologist who specializes in helping individuals with terminal diseases.  They will be best at helping you sort through the normal feelings that occur when one is diagnosed with Mesothelioma.
• Psychiatrists – A psychiatrist can offer the same services as a psychologist but can also prescribe medications for depression or anxiety, two problems that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.
• Clergy – A minister, priest, or rabbi can aid in answering questions like “Why is God punishing me?” or help the cancer patient discuss death and dying within the parameters of their faith.
• Social workers – many locales offer special oncology social workers that can assist the patient and his family with counseling, social services, symptom management, care planning, case management, education and advocacy.  
• Attorneys – a lawyer that is well-versed in the rulings regarding the asbestos industry can assist Mesothelioma victims in recovering damages due to hazardous working conditions or other factors that may have contributed to the diagnosis.  Attorneys may also assist with wills, living wills, power-of-attorney, and other documents.
• Financial Advisors – money matters will most certainly change after a Mesothelioma diagnosis.  Financial advisors can assist in structuring finances to allow for lifestyle changes and to assure that expenses will be met as best as possible.

Why Ask for Help?

Following a Mesothelioma diagnosis, many feelings emerge. While talking about them may be difficult at first, it’s best to release the feelings so that you can concentrate on the important aspects of treatment, recovery, and maintaining quality of life. 

You’ll find that most family members will do their best to support the cancer patient, but some may be in denial, refusing to talk about the situation.  It may be advisable to seek the help of a counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist in order to sort through difficult issues.  Counselors are personally removed from the situation, can offer non-judgmental opinions and suggestions, and will keep discussions confidential.  Many patients also find it easier to divulge their deepest feelings to a stranger rather than to family members or close friends.

In return, a good counselor, trained in dealing with cancer patients, will listen intently, help you sort out your feelings, assist you in finding solutions to your problems, and help you accept what cannot be changed. 

Asking for help is never a sign of weakness!  Mesothelioma is a serious disease that will change your life and dealing with these daunting changes may require the support of others.  To read more about the support systems available to assist Mesothelioma sufferers emotionally, financially, and legally, consult our Mesothelioma Resource Kit, available free of charge from this website.