Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.
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SPECIAL FEATURE Continued from page 28 REDUCING HOLIDAY STRESS It is no secret that the holiday season can be a stressful time for anyone. On one hand it is about celebrations, spirituality and enjoying time with friends, family and loved ones. On the other hand, it is the time of year that tends to create the most demands around special events, gift-giving, travel and myriad other obligations. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association's most recent "Stress in America" survey, 22 percent of Americans report an extreme level of stress during the holidays. Add a cancer diagnosis and treatment to the mix, and the holidays can become downright unbearable. Diane Schaab, MS, LAPC, a Mind-Body Therapist at Cancer Treatment Centers of America® in Newnan, Georgia, says that patients and their families should try to adopt fexible mindsets and allow themselves to modify and simplify gatherings, celebrations, giftgiving and other traditions. "Try to conserve energy by asking your loved ones to help out with the cooking, cleaning, decorating or wrapping of presents," says Schaab. "Let go of the control and allow someone else to do these tasks for you." In addition, Schaab recommends that families and supporters try to be open to new traditions and experiences that may or may not blend with the things they have done in the past to celebrate special events and holidays. Maybe now is the time to start creating that scrapbook that you have been talking about, for example, or sharing a meal at a local restaurant for the holiday instead of cooking dinner for 15 people. "Don't feel that you have to live up to a certain level of expectation or follow the same patterns as you have in the past," says Schaab. "Take the opportunity to live in the moment and create new traditions. Change can make the holidays and special events more unique and gratifying." Finally, it is important for patients and their families to express their emotions during this time. "People characteristically become more emotional around the holidays," Schaab says, "so don't be afraid to talk about how your life has changed or your fears regarding the future. Give yourself permission to feel and express those sentiments. But, after you share your thoughts and fears, embrace the moment with your loved ones." 30 cancer fighters thrive | winter 2013 focus away from "Daddy's ouchie" by seeing a movie, viewing holiday light displays and visiting parks and playgrounds. "It was obviously a stressful time, but we tried to make every moment as special as possible for them," says Rod, whose surgeries were successful and who is now getting follow-up checkups every six months. "Looking back now I think we managed to balance my diagnosis and treatment with the usual holiday stress pretty well." To other families that are facing similar challenges, Keisha says, "Plan as much as you can in advance and utilize all your available resources." Rod adds, "Make sure everything is covered, but also be ready to improvise when needed. That fexibility can really make the difference when it comes to traditions, celebrations and holiday spirit." No case is typical. You should not expect to experience these results. cfthrive.com