At the onset of hearing your diagnosis of mesothelioma, you probably did not understand what to think or feel. There may have been uncertainties on how your loved ones will react; the changes you will face in life and theirs because of your condition. These are common reactions. But it is very important for you to accept the diagnosis so that you and the people around you can move ahead. We hope to provide you with some ideas on creating a positive outlook in meeting your potential challenges.

 

Your Feelings

A range of emotions can be expected of individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma. A few or all of these may be felt at one time or another – disbelief, shock, anxiety, fear, guilt, depression, sadness and even anger

1. Disbelief or shock – No one and nothing can prepare someone for the shocking news of cancer diagnosis. Particularly for mesothelioma, because the exposure to the carcinogenic asbestos elements, which is the primary cause, may have occurred 20, 50 or more years before. Probably, the first symptom was shortness of breath due to a large fluid build-up called pleural effusion, which after it was drained, you felt a lot better; reason for you to doubt or deny the accuracy of the doctor's diagnosis.

2. Anxiety or fear – Fear and anxiety are normal patient reactions. One of the greatest fears of patients and their family members is fear of pain and suffering. The treatments may also cause you anxiety, wondering how you can get through each of them.

3. Guilt – Your thoughts may have travelled back in time and you may feel some guilt for not noticing earlier symptoms. But in most cases, the first symptoms of mesothelioma is fluid build up; or in some cases, the disease is discovered through routine tests and procedures. Another reason for being guilty may be thinking that certain behavior, like smoking, may have likely caused your illness. While smoking is not being encouraged, it has no connection with having mesothelioma.

4. Depression or sadness – Uncertainties can lead to sadness, depression or hopelessness. Concerns about treatments and expenses, and how these things can affect everyone in the family, can also lead to depression. These feelings, however, can be handled with supportive help from concerned individuals, or in some cases, through medication.

5. Anger – This is probably the widest reaching feelings you may have because it can extend to your family members, friends and health care professionals. Venting your feelings cannot be avoided sometimes but be sure you do not direct them to these people and you cannot expect them to solve your problems.