The Emotional Issues of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an inherently emotional disease, not only because it is so deadly and can potentially be the diagnosis that sends you into a dismal state as you prepare for the end. It does not have to be, so painful with the use of counseling and a careful consideration of what you are feeling and why, but the whole range of negative emotions is there for you to choose from if you let them come too close.
One of the most common responses is anger against the world. This anger can become directed at the people that you love most because you are sick and they are healthy. It can become directed at yourself for allowing yourself to become exposed to asbestos, and it can be directed at your doctors for not doing enough to make you well again. You might even become angry at God for "punishing" you or leaving you feeling so helpless before He takes you. These are all normal, although you should strive to examine them, control them, and let them go. You do not want to ruin your relationships or strain them just when you need support.
Another common feeling is helplessness and the temptation to just give in and let yourself die since you are so sick anyway. These feelings will not help your situation, and there is still a good chance that you will see your next birthday and hopefully a few more after that as well. Treatment can be painful and difficult, but you have to logically weigh whether it will be worth it to be with your family for another year or more.
Yet another common emotion that goes along with mesothelioma treatment is dread or fear. You might dread your treatments, which can be painful as well as sickening. You might dread people asking you about your health or having to talk about your disease. You will likely also dread or fear death as it seems to be looming over what you thought was just the middle of your life.
A feeling that you might not think about but that might be just as dangerous to you is relief. You could potentially feel glad that your life is about to end and that you know where and how you will go. This can be just as dangerous as the others, and should be examined carefully. A counselor can help you to sort through your feelings and help you to regain control and go on with your life.
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