Emotions
Confronting the Dual Challenge Of Overcoming Cancer and Addiction
A guest article by Cheryl Conklin wellnesscentral.info
Dealing with cancer is undeniably one of the biggest challenges an individual can face in their life. The physical and emotional toll it takes on individuals and their families can understandably be overwhelming. Additionally, in some cases, individuals battling cancer can also find themselves struggling with substance abuse and addiction, which further complicates their path to recovery. In this article by Healing Cancer Naturally, we’ll explore the best steps individuals battling cancer and substance abuse can consider to overcome their challenges and make positive strides toward recovery.
Coping With The Dual Burden
Cancer and addiction are two big challenges that have different effects and treatment options. For instance, battling cancer (if one chooses the conventional route) requires medical intervention and undergoing chemotherapy (depending on the type and severity of your condition). On the other hand, coping with substance abuse can require going to therapy, and joining community-based programs such as AA and medicinal treatment as well.
The road to recovery for every individual will be different, hence it’s important to not set unrealistic expectations based on the experiences of others. Additionally, remaining consistent with your dual treatment program will be key for increasing the chances of making a recovery, hence be prepared to commit for the long term and don’t hesitate to seek help from loved ones along the way.
Join A Rehab Center
Trying to manage the burden of cancer treatment and substance abuse single-handedly is an uphill challenge for any individual. The best way to take some burden off your shoulders is to check yourself into rehab. A rehab center provides a safe and nurturing environment designed to help individuals address their substance abuse challenges in a comprehensive and time-bound manner.
Managing cancer treatment alongside addiction recovery requires a delicate balance. At rehab centers, you’ll be surrounded by licensed medical professionals who will create a personalized recovery plan to complement your cancer treatment, to ensure you have no adverse effects to prescribed medications.
These plans will be created in collaboration with your oncologist to ensure that necessary medical interventions can be carried out in a timely manner. Additionally, it’ll help to improve the chances of treatment success and prevent relapse.
Seek Emotional Therapy & Support
At rehab centers, you will also receive some much-needed therapy and community support that will no doubt help you ease the mental burden of managing two difficult health challenges.
The various types of therapy can include individual counseling, group therapy, and support sessions that provide a safe space for you to express your emotions and challenges to those who can relate to your situation.Additionally, engaging with others who are struggling with similar challenges can prove to be an empowering experience as well, as you’ll be able to learn the various coping strategies that work for them and try them for yourself.
Embrace Self Care
As reported by Everyday Health, practicing self-care can help improve mental, physical, and emotional well-being. While facing the dual challenge of cancer and substance abuse, practicing self-care can make a world of difference and help remain positive and committed to the recovery process.
Along with adhering to your treatment schedule, make time for daily physical activity, according to Healthline. This can include going for a walk around your neighborhood or to your favorite park. Additionally, if you’re finding it hard to manage stress, practicing mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help to calm your nerves and gain control over racing thoughts.
Spending time with loved ones or starting a hobby are also great options as these activities are known to provide a sense of fulfillment, promote happier moods and reduce stress.
Facing cancer and addiction simultaneously is understandably hard. But, by seeking professional help, joining a rehab center, and embracing emotional therapy and support, individuals can create strong support systems to navigate these obstacles and make positive strides towards recovery daily.
Image via Pexels
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