How to Cope With a Terminal Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is a cancer known to affect the tissue that surrounds our organs and fills the spaces in between them. It's primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, and is more common in adults over the age of 65. Even so, it is possible for younger people to end up with a terminal mesothelioma cancer diagnosis. This is very difficult to deal with, but by no means does it automatically mean there is no possibility of recovery--nor does it mean that the last months of life can't be important and rewarding in their own right.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Speak with your doctor about any depression, anxiety or other mental concerns you may have. While you try to cope with mesothelioma, it is possible to take other medications to help increase your quality of life and improve your outlook while fighting the disease.
2. Talk about how you feel in a support group with others facing your same concerns. The American Cancer Society has resources available for connecting cancer patients so they can give each other hope (see Resources below).
3. Participate in a clinical trial. There are clinical trials available that are showing great promise in treating terminal mesothelioma. Ask your doctor about any clinical trials that are ongoing in your area.
4. Learn about hospice facilities or home-based hospice care in your area. Realize that some insurers will not allow you to simultaneously pursue treatment and hospice, although this common practice has been changing in recent years.
5. Connect with those you love and heal old wounds. Now is the time to share your feelings of affection, pride and tenderness with the people you love the most.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay in constant contact with your doctor, particularly when undergoing treatment for mesothelioma. Even though some diagnoses are considered terminal, there are options to improve your comfort and/or test new treatment possibilities.
• Always get a second opinion when dealing with any cancer diagnosis, whether the initial result is positive or negative. This is standard practice, as well as good, common sense. In many cases, a second opinion is required by your insurance company.
• Talk to your doctor about clinical trials that may be available in your area. There are mesothelioma clinical trials going on around the country, and you may be eligible to participate.