Coping with Uncertainty

It is normal that there is a sense of uncertainty about your future or that of your beloved one(s) if you or your beloved one(s) is diagnosed with cancer. There may be a sense of insecurity over your future and theirs. This sense of uncertainty and insecurity may give rise to such feelings as irritation, anger, and fear. 

• Having to put plans on hold. You may feel like you are unable to plan for the future. Making plans is difficult for many practical reasons. For instance, you may not be able to commit to a dinner date because you cannot predict how your condition is after starting treatment. If you need to take care of your relatives, you may not be able to tell your boss when you can get back to work.  
• Fear about cancer treatment and side effects.   
• Uncertain if the treatment will work or when it will stop working. 
• Worry about the progression of the cancer. 
• Fear of dying or losing someone you love.  

1. Accepting what you can and can't control. 

• Write down your main worries. List as many as you need to. 
• Divide the list into two. One list is for the things you can do something about, and the other list is for the things you can’t do anything about. 
• Make a plan to finish the items on the first list and seek help if needed to finish them. Try to let the second list sink in. 

2. Talk with friends and family members.

• Tell your loved ones how you feel and how they can help. 

3. Mindful of the present moment 

• Find ways to focus on ‘here and now’. 
• Consider taking a few deep breaths and close your eyes. 
• Then open your eyes and identify three things you see that make you feel at peace. 

4. Share experience 

• There are times in which the uncertainties that confront you are not shared by others. However, there are also some instances in which others are confronted by the same uncertainties as you. 
• It can be useful to talk with someone who share similar experiences. 
• Joining support groups may help.

5. Religion/ faith 

• Any religion or faith that has played a role in your life? 
• Will it be a source of support?