How to Cope With a Terminal Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Of the three basic types of skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), melanoma is the one most likely to prove fatal. While terminal diagnoses for skin cancer are getting rarer in this day and age, especially if treated early, thousands of deaths still occur every year. If you receive a terminal skin cancer diagnosis, it is essential for you and your loved ones to not only receive proper medical care, but to seek counseling or medications in order to cope with the emotional and psychological issues.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist

1. Ask your oncologist about participating in clinical study trials, which often use newer treatments at the cutting edge of cancer treatment.
2. Investigate various alternative treatment therapies using herbal remedies, vitamins, stress reduction techniques and even acupuncture. Always consult with your oncologist before proceeding, however, since some supplements may interfere with prescription medication.
3. Ask your doctor as many specific questions as you can about your condition, including the specific type of skin cancer you have, how far it has progressed, and what you can do to improve the way that you feel.
4. Find out about having your family screened for the same type of skin cancer.
5. Decide whether you want to seek counseling for the emotional and psychological side effects of the terminal diagnosis, or whether you want to try some of the prescription medications that can help you to cope with your condition.
6. Involve your friends and loved ones with planning out the remainder of your treatment options, and what to do after you are gone. Many people find that talking about everything lessens the shock of the diagnosis.
7. Remember that others have survived a terminal cancer diagnosis, and try your best to maintain a positive attitude.

Tips & Warnings

• Familiarize yourself with the Consumer's Bill of Rights and Responsibilities so that you will fully understand your ability to choose treatment options and make informed decisions regarding your treatment.
• Always get a second opinion, especially if you have been given a terminal diagnosis, so that you will be informed of all of your options.
• Prepare to deal with potentially overwhelming emotional and psychological side effects of a terminal diagnosis by asking your doctor about counseling or medications that can assist you. Also consider counseling for loved ones through this trying time.