Being told that you have a terminal illness is one of the most devastating experiences that anyone can undergo. When that illness is mesothelioma, the typical reactions can be amplified by anger at the companies and industries that knowingly allowed millions of people to be exposed to a deadly carcinogen. Knowing and understanding the range of emotions and reactions that often accompany a diagnosis of mesothelioma can help patients recognize and deal with issues before they get out of hand.

Shock and Disbelief

A common first reaction for those receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis is to enter an initial state of shock and disbelief. Patients may feel there must be some mistake, or simply not understand the diagnosis, or may not absorb the words that the doctor is saying at first.

Why Me?

One of the first questions asked by most mesothelioma patients is "Why did this happen to me?" Those who are religious may question their faith and why this had to happen to them. It sometimes helps to speak with a counselor or clergy person for guidance.

Anger

Anger is another common reaction to the news that you have a terminal illness. In the case of malignant mesothelioma, anger can be very pointed and harsh because the disease could have been prevented if the asbestos industry had not knowingly exposed people to the toxic mineral. The anger that a mesothelioma patient feels may be directed at family members and friends. If you are a family member of someone diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to remember they are not angry at you, but feel they have no other way to express their helplessness and rage.

Fear and Uncertainty

When your entire future is reduced to dealing with the effects of a terminal disease, it is only natural to be afraid. You do not know what the future will bring, how your family will be cared for, or how you will be able to cope with all the changes in your life. One of the best ways to deal with the uncertainties and fears is to become educated on the topic, and take steps to eliminate the uncertainties. Ask your doctor what to expect medically, and talk to a mesothelioma lawyer about options to protect yourself and your family financially. These steps can help alleviate a great deal of the uncertainty and fear of the future.

Depression

Depression is more than feeling sad and fearful. When depression persists, it can affect the success of mesothelioma treatments and reduce quality of life. Depression is a medically treatable condition that can be made worse by chemical changes brought on by medications and other treatments. There is nothing wrong with asking for help in dealing with depression. Medications can help restore the balance and give patients strength to deal with the realities of their illness.

Blame and Guilt

Many patients diagnosed with mesothelioma will feel guilty and blame themselves. They may question how they could have allowed themselves to be exposed to asbestos, or tell themselves they somehow should have known. Many of those exposed were never aware that they were handling asbestos, let alone warned of the hazards of the deadly dust. Talking to a professional counselor can help alleviate these feelings if they persist beyond the first few weeks.

Denial

Beyond the initial feelings of shock or disbelief, most patients accept their diagnosis and begin making decisions about their treatment. Some, though, continue to deny that they have cancer. They may refuse to discuss treatment options or talk about their disease because speaking about it makes it a reality. If denial becomes persistent after the first reactions, it may be necessary to have a professional step in to help them process the reality of the situation.

Sources:

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3x_Anxiety_and_Fear.asp?sitearea=MBC
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3X_Depression.asp?sitearea=MBC
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/takingtime/page2

Mesothelioma News

Mesothelioma Study Provides Reason for More Research
2008-11-21 15:10:10
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that most commonly develops in the lining of the lungs (pleura). However, other areas of the body that have also been known ...Read More
Mesothelioma Survivor Releases Inspirational Book
2008-09-24 11:20:56
In October 2001, James O'Conner was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma. At that time, he was told he had only a few months to ...Read More
Mesothelioma Patients in Libby Have Little Time to Take Advantage of Free Asbestos Screening
2008-09-05 15:12:39
The deadline for Libby's free asbestos screening is fast approaching. In 2003, the Montana Asbestos Screening and Surveillance Activities program was formed in response to a request from the residents ...Read More