How Do I Cope with Anxiety and Cancer?

Treatments available for cancer patients who experience anxiety include prescription medications (anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants), therapy, support groups, spiritual support, diet, exercise, and stress reduction techniques.

Anxiety is a common reaction to a cancer diagnosis. Cancer not only affects a person’s physical health; it can affect a person’s emotions causing anxiety and stress. Studies have found cancer patients are likely to suffer from anxiety, stress, depression, and other emotional challenges. 

There are a number of treatments available for cancer patients who experience anxiety. It is important to tell your doctor what you are feeling so they can recommend a treatment plan. 

Treatments for anxiety in cancer patients include: 

• Medications 
  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Antidepressants
• Therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to learn different ways of thinking about and reacting to anxiety 
  • Individual (one-to-one) counseling
  • Group therapy
  • Animal-assisted therapy
  • Laughter therapy
  • Crisis counseling
  • Couples and family counseling
• Support groups
• Spiritual support 
• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting regular physical activity 
• Maintaining a support network
• Stress reduction techniques
  • Biofeedback
  • Breathing exercises 
  • Guided imagery
  • Hypnosis
  • Meditation
  • Relaxation techniques