As a private radiotherapy centre in the UK, we are taking the opportunity to share some tips and practical advice about coping with a brain tumour diagnosis.
When you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, it’s naturally a time of uncertainty and fears about the future. This can be emotionally draining, at a time when you also need to think about practical issues such as arranging finances, speaking to employers about time off for treatment, working out caring duties, and so on.
However, there is no need to face all these issues alone: there are support systems in place to help you cope, and many people who have been there before you are willing to share their insights. Charities such as Cancer Research UK have their own online forums, support groups and resources to help people navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
As a private radiotherapy centre in the UK, we are taking the opportunity to share some tips and practical advice on coping with a brain tumour diagnosis, as we approach Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May).
Everyone will find their response to a diagnosis is different, from shock or sadness to numbness or anger. Allow yourself time to process and connect with your emotions, however uncomfortable they may feel. This will help you to put your fears into perspective and talk more honestly with family and friends or healthcare professionals about what you are feeling.
Over time, this will boost your own mental health, and enable you to develop stronger relationships with others. You may also find the process of navigating treatment and recovery easier if you are more in touch with your emotions.
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious when you are faced with the uncertainties that lie ahead. However, there are certain things you can control, and taking practical steps to put these into practice can help you to manage your emotions.
For example, certain lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, increasing your level of physical fitness, and exploring the available resources and support networks can help you to focus and feel more in control. This will also make dealing with the treatment and any potential side effects easier.
Set small achievable goals that are not related to your cancer treatment, such as walking a mile every day or at the weekend, or trying out a new recipe a couple of times a week.
A brain tumour diagnosis is life-changing, and if you are employed, it is likely that you will need to take time off work for treatment and recovery, or even stop working altogether. If you do decide to continue working, you may find that the tumour or the side effects of treatment affect your ability to do your job.
For example, some types of brain tumour can cause cognitive difficulties such as memory loss or confusion, speech and language problems, personality changes, or fatigue. If your partner or a family member needs to act as your carer, their job might also be affected.
You are not legally obliged to tell your employer about your brain tumour diagnosis, and some people may worry that it might result in unfair treatment at work. However, your rights as an employee are legally protected and your employer should make reasonable adjustments, including allowing you to have time off for appointments and treatment.
A brain tumour diagnosis can impact your finances, and this can be an additional source of stress and anxiety at a time when you are already dealing with powerful emotions and a lot of disruption. Your ability to earn might be reduced, or even stop altogether. If this is the case, take action early to find out what benefits and other financial support you can access.
Planning a budget can help you gain a sense of control over your finances, because you will be able to see at a glance how much money you have coming in and what your outgoings are. The Brain Tumour Charity has a useful section on managing your finances, and you can also access help from organisations such as the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
After your treatment, you may have short or long-term side effects that change your life in some way. These will be unique to you and the type of tumour and treatment you have received, and your healthcare team will still be available to help you with any queries and concerns you may have.
Remember that you are not alone, and there are many support services available to help you navigate emotional, physical or practical difficulties of living with a brain tumour.
Centres of Excellence for Stereotactic Radiosurgery treatment of complex Brain Tumours
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