Most men eventually adjust to active surveillance, and their anxiety gradually decreases over time. There are a few things you can do to make that process less stressful.
1. Understand the Benefits and Risks
“A big part of stress with cancer diagnoses is the lack of control,” Dr. Schade says.
You may feel more in control if you fully understand the benefits and risks of active surveillance. Have an honest discussion with your doctor. Learn about your other options. Ask questions. Share your preferences. And become an active participant in making decisions about your care, Dr. Khera says.
Remember that the criteria for being on active surveillance are strict and reserved for men with a low risk of prostate cancer spreading. Your doctor may reassure you of this.
2. Focus on Things You Can Control
Simple things you do every day to improve your health can help you feel more in control. Khera calls them the “four pillars”:
- Diet
- Exercise
- Sleep
- Stress reduction
Do not forget to pay attention to any other health issues you might have, as well, in addition to screening for other cancers.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing are designed to take your mind off your worries, focus it on the present moment, and help you accept your thoughts and feelings.
“Mindfulness is phenomenal for reducing stress,” Khera says.
Mindfulness is linked to less anxiety in people receiving treatment for prostate cancer, as well. Researchers are investigating how much this practice can help men on active surveillance and their partners.
4. Get Support
Surround yourself with people who care about you and are willing to help when you feel anxious. Your support circle could include your partner, friends, and family.
Support groups are another good resource where you can find people on active surveillance or those who have undergone treatment and encountered side effects.
“Being able to talk to other men who are going through the same thing or have been through the same thing could be really helpful,” Schade says.
Prostate cancer support groups are available at cancer centers and through organizations such as:
5. Involve Your Partner
Your partner may feel anxiety, too, worrying with every test result that your cancer has progressed. The same is true for other family members and close friends.
Often, they feel left out of the process. Some aren’t on board with the decision to do active surveillance because they worry it’s too risky.
Getting your partner or family members involved in your care will help all of you. Bring them with you to appointments. Involve them in treatment decisions. Recognize their needs and feelings, just as they recognize yours.
6. Keep Up With Appointments
Active surveillance doesn’t mean doing nothing. It often comes with regular testing and follow-up schedules. It’s important to keep your doctor appointments to ensure your condition is staying within a safe limit.
Your doctor will monitor your cancer on a regular basis, which usually involves:
“We keep a close eye on the cancer,” Schade says. “If we find something that looks more concerning or if the patient opts to be more aggressive, then we would transition to treatment.”
7. Adopt a Positive Attitude
Staying positive might seem hard to do when you have cancer, but a little bit of optimism could improve your quality of life.
“Healthier attitudes can help people get through cancer better,” Khera says.
Being an active participant in your treatment and having a good support network will help you stay positive through any challenges that lie ahead.
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