Stressful and life-threatening experiences, such as a cancer diagnosis, can be traumatic experiences. Many people have feelings of fear, anxiety, and helplessness, which can lead to post-traumatic stress (PTS).
Traumatic experiences often involve a threat to life or safety, but any situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and isolated can be traumatic, even if it doesn’t involve physical harm. It’s not the objective facts that determine whether an event is traumatic, but your own emotional experience. The more frightened and helpless you feel, the more likely you are to be traumatized.
Triggers of PTS can include:
- Diagnosis of cancer
- Surgery
- Radiation or chemotherapy
- Hospitalizations
- Waiting for test or scan results
- Coming back to your doctor’s office for follow-up visits
- Cancer recurrence
We all react in different ways to trauma, experiencing a wide range of physical and emotional reactions. There is no right or wrong way to think, feel, or respond, so don’t judge your reactions or those of others.
Tips for coping with PTS:
- Get moving with exercise or activities such as yoga or tai chi.
- Avoid isolation. Ask for support. Participate in social activities. Reconnect with old friends. Join a support group. Make new connections.
- Focus on health. Get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Practice wellness techniques such as meditation, guided imagery, or reiki.