Coping with a diagnosis of bowel cancer

Receiving a cancer diagnosis often comes as a shock to many people and is frequently accompanied by challenging feelings. Here, Tara Radwan (trainee clinical psychologist) and Clare Reeder (Macmillan Principal Clinical Psychologist) explore some of the common emotional responses to a new diagnosis and some methods of coping.

People react in different ways when first receiving a diagnosis. For some people, this may be unexpected and people may find themselves in a state of shock and confusion. Others may find that receiving a diagnosis validates their pain and symptoms. It can feel overwhelming receiving all the new medical information and having to go to many medical appointments, which may bring about feelings of uncertainty. There is no “normal” way to react when receiving a diagnosis. Experiencing fear, anxiety and panic is very common – this may be for a variety of different reasons, such as worrying about the cancer itself, upcoming treatment, or feeling anxious about the future. Emotions can be surprisingly extreme, feeling like you are on an emotional roller coaster and may include anger, grief, low mood, distress, numbness, or disconnection. These could be because of changes to your future (including hopes and plans), losses associated to physical changes (e.g. less energy, changes to appearance), changes in your relationships and roles, and financial pressures. It could also be challenging to face other people’s response. Finally, receiving a diagnosis may bring up difficult memories, such as bereavements or previous illnesses.

People cope with difficult emotions that come up in different ways, and what is helpful for one person may not always be helpful for another. Guided relaxation, mindfulness, or breathing exercises are often helpful in calming the physiological feelings that accompany distress. These exercises are readily available online. Other ways to manage distress include making notes during appointments, asking professionals to go slowly and repeat things as needed, taking in notes or questions with you to appointments (e.g. clarifying certain medical terms), and creating a list of relaxing activities and exercises to engage in when you find yourself feeling stressed.  You may find it helpful to take time to do the things you love, talk to people you trust, stick to a routine, or get regular physical exercise. It is important to remember to be compassionate towards yourself and to try to manage any expectations that you or others may have. If you notice you are having a bad day or struggling with something, why not stop and notice the thoughts you are having. If you are being critical to yourself, ask yourself, would you say that to a close friend? If not, what would you say instead?

Different people will react in different ways when receiving a new diagnosis, but it is important to remember to show yourself kindness during this challenging time. Whilst experiencing distress is common and understandable, if it’s feeling unmanageable and is impacting your day-to-day functioning it may be helpful to seek further support. If you find that this is the case, please speak to your healthcare professional about this.

For further information on coping with a diagnosis, visit our information page here.

Some people also find it helpful to join our online community, a place for anyone affected by bowel cancer to talk about their experiences, share their knowledge and support each other, here.