If you’ve been diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, it can feel difficult to stay positive while living with uncertainty. Here are a few tips for managing your emotions and living your best life.
It’s important to note that maintaining a positive outlook doesn’t mean ignoring or suppressing your difficult emotions. Instead, it involves consciously shifting your focus towards positive possibilities and seeking healthy ways to express and process your feelings. You might find yourself worrying about the worst-case scenarios and going down a rabbit hole while searching the internet for any information that you can find (relevant or not). Try to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the present moment to create a more resilient and optimistic mindset that will allow you to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.
With that in mind, it is OK to give yourself permission to fully feel and express fear, sadness, or anger as often as you need. Suppressing emotions can be unhealthy. You might find it helpful if you share your feelings with loved ones, let those tears flow when needed, and find safe outlets like exercise or music when emotions become intense. When your thoughts start spiralling, gently remind yourself that you cannot predict the future. Instead, focus on reasonable possibilities and actions within your control. Appreciate the present moment, not an imagined tomorrow.
Develop a routine of acknowledging the things you’re thankful for, no matter how large or small. People often find that shifting their focus toward gratitude redirects their attention from the negative and has the power to uplift their mood. Keep a daily gratitude journal or share “good things” with loved ones at dinner. Express thanks to those who support you. Savour small pleasures like a sunny day, a favourite food, or quality time with pets or kids. This trains your mind to focus on the positive and promotes well-being.
Set realistic goals unrelated to your cancer, like learning a new skill or tackling a home project. It’s a great opportunity to delve into your core values and passions. Engaging in meaningful endeavours such as volunteering, creative pursuits, or community involvement can infuse your life with purpose and sustenance. Achieving goals boosts your self-confidence and distracts you from constantly thinking about your diagnosis.
Drawing strength from family and friends can be transformative. Share your emotions and allow others to provide support during moments of emotional weight—it can be truly comforting. Surround yourself with encouraging, positive people. Share your feelings and struggles, accepting comfort and advice. Help and support can come in various forms, and some loved ones may be able to help more with daily physical activities while others offer more emotional support.
Nourish your body with wholesome foods, engage in physical activities when feasible, and indulge in activities that rejuvenate you. Whether it’s spending time outdoors, immersing yourself in a book, or losing yourself in the notes of your favourite music, caring for your entire being equips you with coping mechanisms. Staying active and giving your body and mind the right “foods” can have a huge impact on your mindset.
If you find yourself grappling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or any emotional challenges, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. Don’t hesitate to reach out to loved ones, friends, or a medical professional for support. Additionally, exploring local charities can provide valuable emotional assistance. For instance, in the UK, you can connect with Lymphoma Action; in the US, consider reaching out to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; and if you’re in Australia, the Lymphoma Australia organisation is available.
See Your Support Hub for more emotional health advice, plus general information on follicular lymphoma.
