Being Supportive During a Cancer Crisis

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be incredibly overwhelming. If you have a friend or family member who has been diagnosed with cancer, then there are several ways you can offer inspiration. It is important to provide support during this challenging time. Friends and family members will appreciate the encouragement that you can offer.

Offer Specific Help
Instead of making a general offer to assist your loved one, consider making a specific offer. For example, you can offer to drive your friend to chemotherapy treatment. Offering to bring food to a friend’s family or to pick up prescriptions from the pharmacy can also be good ways to offer help. Cancer patients may be too overwhelmed to suggest ways that you can help. This is why making specific offers can be an ideal way to help during a crisis. You may also want to consider mutual friends or other family members who can help as well. Encourage groups of friends to find ways to offer support.

Stay Supportive
When cancer patients announce their diagnosis, they may receive an initial outpouring of encouragement and support. The support can decrease as the treatments continue. Stay informed of the treatment plan for your loved one. Try to remain supportive throughout the weeks of treatment. Cancer patients may begin to feel sick as they progress through treatment, and it is important to offer as much encouragement as you can.

Make Small Gestures
If your friend does not feel like having visitors, then consider dropping off a thoughtful card with a supportive message. Cancer patients may not feel like spending time socializing, but you can still be a source of support. If you cannot find the words to offer inspiration, then you may want to search for inspirational books for cancer patients that can offer encouragement.

Cancer patients who have supportive networks of family and friends can face their challenges with more optimism and motivation. These positive attitudes can reduce stress levels. Helping friends and family during their difficult times can also bring you a renewed sense of appreciation for life.