A diagnosis of mesothelioma will affect every area of life, including relationships. Patients have little control over how people will react to the news of the illness. Some may change the way they act, and others may completely avoid the patient. This can be difficult to deal with, but understanding that others are also dealing with acceptance and grief may make it easier to bear.

The following address a variety of issues facing those with mesothelioma:

When Do I Tell People I Have Mesothelioma?

The decision to reveal with others that you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma is very personal. Some might decide they are more comfortable allowing someone else deliver the news.

There are many reasons why you might delay telling friends, family members, and coworkers about your illness. Do keep in mind that those close to you will eventually notice that something is wrong. If you wait to tell people that you are ill, find ways to let them know before it becomes obvious and rumors begin to spread.

Should I Tell My Children/Grandchildren?

Many people feel it is best to shelter younger children from the more difficult parts of life. The problem with shielding young children from the news is they might already know something is wrong. Young children can be very attuned to the moods and actions of people around them. When a grandparent is too tired to play, or is suddenly irritable, children may misinterpret what is happening. Many will blame themselves, or believe the grandparent has stopped loving them.

Depending on the age and sensitivity of the child, you may not want to share all the details of the illness or prognosis. If you are uncomfortable discussing the illness with your children or grandchildren, it may be easier to let another family member explain it to them.

How Will This Affect My Intimate Relationships?

Having mesothelioma does not necessarily mean the conclusion of intimate relations with your partner. While some may find sex is the furthest thought from their minds, others may want and need the comfort of being close to the one they love most. Sexual activity after a mesothelioma diagnosis is a very personal matter, and will vary from one person to the next. It is important for both the patient and their partner to understand that a sexual relationship will almost inevitably change after diagnosis.

Mesothelioma treatments may leave you feeling too tired or ill to enjoy sexual activities. The physical changes to your body may make you feel unattractive and hesitant to approach your partner sexually.

It's important to communicate with your partner. Communication can help both of you move back toward a loving, physical relationship that may be different than your old relationship, but is fulfilling and comforting in the same ways.

Sources:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/support/support-groups
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/MBC_2x_OtherEffects.asp
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MBC/content/MBC_2_3x_Sexuality.asp?sitearea=MBC

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