5 Videos to Help You Manage Stress After a Cancer Diagnosis

It is always important to practice self-care. With August being National Wellness Month, now is the perfect time to reflect on ways to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Part of self-care involves learning ways to handle stress and anxiety, which tend to go hand in hand with a cancer diagnosis. Whether you are a cancer patient or a caregiver, it is important to listen to your body and put yourself first when it comes to managing the stresses of a cancer journey.

People with cancer who have healthy stress management techniques often have better overall quality of life. Although applying such techniques can be easier said than done, the Cancer Support Community has a variety of support resources that can help you learn what works best for you.

Here are 5 short videos about stress management, including tips from cancer patients and caregivers, to help you take control of your physical and emotional well-being.

1. How to Handle Stress (1 min)

Managing stress looks different for each person. Taking the time to find techniques that work best for you is key. Perhaps it’s immersing yourself in nature, reading a good book, or watching your favorite television show or movie. Whatever it may be, find something that can serve as an outlet away from the stress of your cancer journey.

2. Strategies for Managing the Anxiety Related to the Fear of Recurrence (1 min)

After completing cancer treatment, it is natural to worry about a recurrence. Talking about it in a support group or with a health care professional, and learning other practical ways to manage stress and emotions, can help ease some of that fear and anxiety.

By sharing with others and hearing about their journeys, I keep my situation in perspective.

–– Heather, cancer survivor

3. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff (1 min)

It may be beneficial to express the thoughts and emotions you have in your head out loud. Acknowledging even the little things and how they make you feel — and then letting go of those things — can be a great way to manage the stresses in your life.

4. Finding “Me” Time (2 min)

If you are a caregiver, it is important to give yourself permission to do things that benefit your self-care and give you joy. It can be difficult to care for someone else to the best of your ability if you are not first caring for yourself.

Nearly 1 out of 2 caregivers who joined the Cancer Experience Registry reported at least sometimes experiencing a sense of loss of control over their own life.

–– 2020 Cancer Experience Registry Report

5. Exercise Was Key to My Recovery (1 min)

Finding ways to move your body can improve your mental and physical health. Talk with a member of your health care team to see what exercises are best for your level of energy and ability.

Prioritizing emotional health and well-being during your cancer journey is important. The Cancer Support Community is here to support you as you explore stress management techniques that work best for you. We hope these videos inspire you and help you manage your stress this month and all year long.