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Types of Doctors - Psychologist

When an individual receives a diagnosis of mesothelioma, many emotions will begin to surface. Since this type of cancer has been known to shorten life, it is clear that a patient will experience a wide range of feelings. Even though many patients feel they are too overwhelmed with tests, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy to see one more professional, psychologists can help the patient make sense of the upheaval in their life. A mesothelioma patient may feel that seeking emotional help is a sign of weakness, but it is actually a sign of strength. It shows they are ready to face and manage the issues that a serious disease generates in order to focus on recuperation.

Psychologists address a variety of issues surrounding mesothelioma. Although people react differently to the news of having cancer, most incur some or all of six major responses:

The first is disbelief, which is profound with this type of cancer. When people realize they may have been exposed to asbestos through air currents carrying fibers, or from another person's clothing, they frequently cannot believe the facts. Psychologists can explain the logistics of how this happens, and provide statistics that may allow the patient to realize they are not alone in acquiring the disease.

The second concerns pain or abandonment. This is normal, and support groups often help. Specialized psychologists can put the patient in touch with a group that would be best for his or her needs.

Third, mesothelioma patients undergo anxiety. It touches on personal finances, business obligations, and choosing the right treatment plan. The psychologist should be able to convince the patient that it is in their best interest to obtain information and then take action. Feelings of helplessness may be reduced when a patient is involved with research. Having a sense of control can also keep anxiety at a minimum.

Fourth, many patients experience strong feelings of guilt. Many patients feel they are to blame for not getting help earlier. A psychologist can work through these feelings so the patient feels strong enough to legally pursue those who are truly at fault for causing their illness.

The fifth emotion concerns grief, which is enhanced by the depression that is a physical factor for all cancer patients. Psychologists may see signs that a mesothelioma patient needs more than just counseling or alternative therapies. In this case, they can refer their findings to a psychiatrist, who may then prescribe medication (such as anti-depressants or sleep aids).

The final feeling is that of anger. Psychologists can help patients direct their anger to more positive and healing directions.

What Can be Expected?

Besides being a resource for information and other alternative therapies, psychologists can show mesothelioma patients how to better cope with the discomfort and inconvenience of medical treatments, assist in pain reduction, re-direct a patient's anger, encourage the removal of guilt, and make a big difference in reducing anxiety and depression. Even a few visits can help the mesothelioma patient with acceptance of the disease, which may make a big difference in completing medical treatments.

For information about other mesothelioma doctors, please see "Types of Doctors Involved in Treating Mesothelioma." To learn more about this type of cancer, please see "Mesothelioma Overview."

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