DEALING OPENLY WITH DOUBT AND DEPRESSION

Despite all the support from family and friends, cancer treatment is a lonely experience.  As cancer patients, caregivers and family members, the life we knew before cancer will not return and we have to create a new one for ourselves that is always changing and never certain. 

At times you will feel as helpless as the day you were born. As much as you have tried in the past to shelter your loved ones from sadness and sorrow, the tables have turned and now you are the one that needs to be protected.  As a result, every cancer patient goes through periods of doubt in which we find ourselves depressed and afraid.

To face these fears and doubts, accept the reality of your diagnosis and realize that you still have the chance to decide if the glass is half full or half empty.  Whatever it is in your life that gives you energy and inspiration, keep that close to you at all times.  For me, it is music.  For you, it can be anything.  Find something that you are passionate about and that resonates deeply inside you.  It can be something you have experienced before or something that you have always wanted to try but have never done.  In my case, one of the first things I did after being diagnosed was to commit myself to recording my first album.  Whenever you begin to feel darkness creeping in, go to that place that is yours and follow your muse.