English Community

Hello all,

I was looking through some recent and past threads and noticed comments scattered across the discussions regarding how Teal Sisters "cope". The "coping" was sometimes related to a stage e.g., recently diagnosed or in treatment. Other times it was related to how to cope with the "noise" in our heads or "noise" created as a result of physical pain or frustration with navigating the medical system. Regardless of the root cause, I know we've all had to "cope" at some point during our individual journey's.

I'd love to gather input on your ways of "coping". It could be a resource you've used. It could be in the form of some type of outlet e.g., exercise. Your input could provide some ideas or insights to add to each of our toolboxes. Overall it's a way to normalize that we all have had to "cope" at some point and none of us are alone in that.  

#Resources #Healthandwellness

One of the things I've tried as a 'coping' mechanism is to give myself time to 'grieve'. While grief is often bereavement related, it can also be attributed to major life changes including health. Grief does not come in a linear format...it often comes in waves, which ebb and flow. When I feel I need to 'grieve' as it relates to my cancer diagnosis and all the challenges it has brought, I give myself space and permission.

My 'grieving' sometimes come in the form of having a 5 minute pity party for myself where I cry, or just allow myself to be angry. Sometimes I just need a day to be alone in my thoughts and I let my husband know and/or family if they are around. I need them to understand that I just need some time to process and they've always been supportive. If it's not possible or feasible to take time for myself I at least let others around me know that I'm having an 'off' day and seek forgiveness up front if I appear gruff. I don't make excuses or seek anyone else's permission however I do let them know that I'm not quite myself.  I have found that accepting and acknowledging how I'm feeling has helped release my tension and emotions. 

Friends and family in my circle of support often ask how they can help me. Allowing me the time and space to "grieve" is one of the areas they have helped and for that, I'm appreciative.

#Healthandwellness