How to Cope With Terminal Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis

When malignant cell growth invades the lower abdomen's pancreatic gland, pancreatic cancer results. Because symptoms generally start to appear only after the disease has already reached the metastatic stage, treatment can be difficult. A terminal diagnosis is not unusual, but it is shocking and emotionally devastating for the patient.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist

Come to Terms With Your Terminal Diagnosis

1. Face the reality of the situation. Though denial is a natural psychological defense mechanism, prolonged or continued denial can make it more difficult for your loved ones to cope with your terminal diagnosis.
2. Reach out. You are not expected to deal with a terminal diagnosis without a lot of help. Friends, family members and others with the same condition can all be pillars of strength. Medical social workers and religious officials will also be glad to offer you any support, comfort and guidance you may need.
3. Express your emotions. Tie up loose ends and bridge any estrangements in your life as soon as possible. It will bring you and those around you a great deal of comfort as you face this difficult situation.
4. Have faith. For many, religion helps soothe, contextualize and give strength to the diagnosis of a terminal illness. It can help your loved ones cope, as well.
5. Participate in decisions regarding your final arrangements. Express any preferences you have. Make a will, if you haven't already.
6. Focus on the positives. Reflect upon your life accomplishments that bring you a sense of pride. Make sure the important people in your life know how highly you value them.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure you ask your oncologist or specialist what you can do to keep pain at bay, and ask him or her to direct you to any support groups that can help you manage your grief. Nobody is expected to cope with a terminal pancreatic cancer diagnosis on his own. Many support structures are in place, both within and outside the health care system.
• Remember that you have, by law, the right to participate in treatment decisions. Whether to continue your fight or simply manage your condition is your choice to make, and nobody else's.
• A terminal cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult things a person can face. The psychological ramifications can be severe. Talk to your physician or another qualified health care professional about joining a support group for terminal patients.

Who Can Help: