| Learning to relax | Learn about your illness by talking to others | Care for yourself |
| Alternative approaches to problems | Take control by calming down |
Sometimes problems can crowd around and you can't see any way out. Try taking some time to sit down quietly. Start by relaxing-maybe a few deep breaths. Then try to sort quietly through the things that are worrying you.
You might like to do this alone, or with someone else - a friend, family member, or professional counsellor.
Start by listing your different problems and worries, both large and small. Then choose one or two that you want to work on -things that can be changed or helped. For instance, you might be worried about not having enough sick leave, or losing your job. You may be very afraid of pain. Maybe you can't cope with the children while you are having treatment. Or the front lawn needs mowing and you can't do it. Or you don't have enough quality time with your partner.
Then list things you can do. Write down every solution you can think of, even the ones that seem silly. For instance, your list might include:
Select one or more solutions that seem realistic or possible, and give them a try. After a reasonable period, sit back again and decide how successful you have been.
