| Learning to relax | Learn about your illness by talking to others | Care for yourself |
| Alternative approaches to problems | Take control by calming down |
Put yourself first when you need to
Seek religious or spiritual support
Think of yourself and your own needs. Take time out when you need it, and rest when you are tired. This is as important for carers as it is for people with cancer.
Allow yourself to say 'No!' to things you can't cope with, or to visitors you simply do not want to see. Or get someone else to say 'No!' for you.
Sometimes you may not feel much like eating or preparing good food. But eating a balanced diet (even if you don't eat a lot) will help you to feel as well as possible. The dietitian at your treatment centre can provide information on diet.
Even gentle exercise can help you to loosen up, release tension, and feel better and more relaxed. Some people find that jogging-long, slow, regular running-is good. Others prefer walking, swimming or some other activity.
If you have cancer, check with your doctor before you start an exercise program.
Relaxation techniques can help you sleep. If you are lying awake worrying about something you haven't done, get up and do it, or watch some television, or read-then try sleeping again. If you have a sleep problem that is worrying you, ask your doctor for help or for a referral to a sleep clinic.
Do not try to do everything. Concentrate on doing the things that really matter, and forget about less important things. Try making lists of the most important things to be done.
Accept any offers of help. Most people really want to help, but often don't know how to. Ask a friend to drive you to hospital, or pick up the kids, or walk the dog...
Keep up your hobbies. Try to get out of the house regularly, even if only for short outings. See a funny film-laughing is a wonderful way of feeling good, even if it is the last thing you thought you could do. Or escape into some music for a while-anything you find relaxing or satisfying.
Religion is an important source of support for some people. Talk to someone who represents the faith you respect. Don't be put off just because you have not attended formal services regularly, or because you are not sure what you believe. Their concern is to help you sort through your ideas, doubts and beliefs and find peace of mind.
