Mesothelioma – Caring for Someone with Mesothelioma
BY MELANIE WALTERS

Caring for someone who has mesothelioma can be a very taxing, yet rewarding undertaking. To be a good caregiver though, it helps to have as much knowledge about this dreaded disease, and how to help those suffering from it. A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be accompanied by a great deal of painful emotions and difficult questions for the patient and those who love him or her. All can learn to cope however, and it is as important to care for yourself as for the sufferer. Learning as much as possible about the disease will help to alleviate much of the fear associated with it, as well as helping you to better care for someone suffering from mesothelioma.

Coping With Mesothelioma

It’s quite natural for any individual and their loved ones to go into shock when a mesothelioma diagnosis is made. Panic and fear set in, and everyone begins to wonder what is going to happen. It is critical at this point to get as much support as possible, as simply being informed is not always enough. Taking the following actions are recommended by the National Cancer Institute when dealing with mesothelioma on a long term basis, whether a patient, or a loved one.

1. Recognize that any feelings of guilt, fear, remorse, anger, regret or denial are natural and okay.
2. Share what you’re feeling with family and friends. Talking with others is good therapy for both you and them; though don’t force someone to speak about it if they are obviously overwhelmed.
3. Get outside support for the patient and family members, whether it is an individual counsellor or a support group.
4. Get informed. Learn as much as possible about mesothelioma, and keep note of any questions that you may have for the patient’s physician.
5. Help others suffering from mesothelioma and their families both emotionally, and by assisting with everyday chores.
6. Keep active by enjoying a hoppy, sport, or other recreational activity

If You’re Caring for Someone With Mesothelioma

Those caring for patients of mesothelioma victims, especially the family members, can sometimes be the forgotten victims of the disease. Often they overlook the importance of their own physical, mental, and emotional health, simply because they are busy with meeting the needs of the sufferer. It is equally important for carers to make sure they stay healthy; for themselves, and for the mesothelioma patient they are caring for. It may be especially difficult for them to express how they are feeling, as guilt can consume a person when they tire, but there is no need for guilt. Being overwhelmed or exhausted and wishing you didn’t have to do it anymore is a natural reaction to a demanding situation. No one would want to go through mesothelioma if they had a choice, you don’t, and it doesn’t make you a bad person because you might wish it to be over.

The best way to deal with such feelings is to get support. Speaking with a trusted family priest, friend, physician or private counsellor can help you to rid yourself of such feelings, as well as obtain positive support and advice. Support groups, especially those for other carers, can be of immense help. The camaraderie and experiences you share form an instant bond, as only those who are in the same or similar situation can fully understand what you’re going through.

You might also want to consider asking for help with household and daily chores. You are only one person, so don’t try to do the work or shoulder the responsibility of five. If caring for a mesothelioma patient, ask family friends if they can assist with cooking a meal or two, picking the kids up from school, mowing the lawn, grocery shopping and that sort of thing. Remember, you don’t have to go through mesothelioma alone, but most importantly – look after yourself, it’s the only way you can truly care for your loved one who has mesothelioma.