Managing Self-Image While Coping With Cancer | Sex Toys

Because of the countless physical and emotional changes that so often occur after a cancer diagnosis, as well as Before, duringAnd After After undergoing cancer treatment, many people experience a dramatic change in their self-image. Given the pervasive nature of cancer, this is not surprising: it is easy to feel alienated from who you thought you were and, at the very least, deeply unsettled by the disease.

But, friends, all hope is not lost.

Being well-informed about the types of changes you might expect, talking openly about your concerns with your healthcare provider(s), and surrounding yourself with a meaningful support network can go a long way in mitigating a negative self-image and helping you prepare for meaningful healing.

Here is a general description of the types of changes you can expect to experience in your self-image as you cope with cancer. Please note, however, that the changes you experience will be unique to you and the type of cancer you are dealing with.

On a physical level

Both cancer and its treatments can change a person’s physical appearance. Understandably, many people with cancer experience major challenges in terms of self-esteem, confidence, and overall morale when faced with these bodily changes.

Some of the most common physical changes associated with cancer include hair loss, weight gain or loss, surgical scars, and skin rashes caused by by drug therapies, loss of an organ, limb or breast, need for an ostomy (AKA a surgical opening that allows bodily waste to exit the body into a bag), and fatigue or a lack of energy, to name a few. It is hardly surprising that many people dealing with cancer have begun to lose the will to engage in activities that once brought them joy.

As hard as it may be to believe, many of the physical changes you experience during cancer will resolve after treatment or improve over time.

That being said, never hesitate to express any concerns you have to your medical team. always It is worth seeking additional information and resources that may help relieve your symptoms.

On an emotional level

Cancer is a real pain, to say the least. It disrupts almost every aspect of life, from your career, hobbies, sports, sexuality, and relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. It can be difficult for some people to stay emotionally grounded or motivated enough to maintain intimate relationships.

Let’s be real: Depending on the severity of your cancer, this whole experience may also force you to see your future in a whole new light, and perhaps even consider the possibility of meeting death itself.

Throughout all of this, it is completely normal to feel sad (or deeply sad), anxious (or incredibly panicked), scared (or beyond terrified), angry (or extremely enraged), lonely, alienated, frustrated, guilty, ashamed, out of control, and/or super detached from your usual sense of self and self-image.

We are all different, which means that some of us take longer or have a harder time accepting changes in our self-image.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may find yourself drowning in negative self-talk.

You may not want to leave your house because you don’t want to be seen. You may feel like you want to completely shut out romantic or sexual encounters. You may avoid physical contact, affection, or getting naked in front of your partner. You may avoid meeting new people. You may feel an overwhelming sense of shame about having had cancer. Ultimately, you may feel unable to accept yourself as you are today.

When you’re bombarded with these larger-than-life emotions, it’s completely normal to have a hard time holding onto your usual self-image, accepting who you are now, or even understanding how to relate to this different version of yourself.

But guess what? Many people with cancer also report incredibly positive emotional turning points. It’s no surprise that such a life-changing illness can act as a catalyst for positive life changes.

The positive feelings you may experience may manifest on an emotional, spiritual, or intellectual level. You may discover a new appreciation for your physical strength or emotional resilience. You may feel a deep sense of inner peace and gratitude for life and those close to you. You may gain clarity as your priorities shift (or change dramatically) and your authentic goals become clearer.

How to cope

The following tips are intended to help you deal with a range of self-image issues you may encounter as you cope with cancer.

– Be patient and kind to yourself. Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy or radiation can be life-changing. Give yourself time to get used to the idea. Be kind to yourself whenever you can.

– Build a support network. Whether it’s your partner, friends, family, and/or chosen family, do your best to surround yourself with people who care about you and want to help you heal.

– Ask for help. If you’re battling cancer, this is not the time to push yourself or use up your energy, you know, given how ruthlessly normalized our society has become. Don’t be afraid to delegate cooking, housework, childcare, and work tasks to anyone who is willing to help. Save your energy to speed up your healing process.

– Adopt humor as much as possible. Life is ultimately a big box of chocolates and a roller coaster, both at the same time. And so much more. Never underestimate the therapeutic power of laughter.

– Stay active as much as possible. Physical activity tends to boost energy and can help you feel better overall. Staying socially engaged can also keep you from dwelling on the negative and keep your spirits up.

– Talk it over. One-on-one conversations or attending support groups with others in a similar situation can help you gain perspective, resources, and hope for healing. You may also want to consider talking about your feelings with someone you trust, whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or a trained therapist. Consider seeking help from a marriage counselor who specializes in helping couples cope with cancer.

– Communicate regularly with your healthcare team. Learn about reconstructive surgery, prosthetics, and/or cosmetic solutions to address your self-image issues. If you are afraid of losing your hair, you may want to consider cutting or shaving it to maintain more control over your experiences.

While some changes, like hair loss, are temporary, others, like the loss of a body part or surgical scars, may take longer to adjust to. But over time, these changes can become a normal part of your life. Some people even come to view these changes as signs of strength and survival, an inextricable part of the person they have become.