Yet there are many tips that don’t often make their way into those conversations (about MM chemotherapy treatments), and if they do, you’ll likely have more questions when you get back home…
You have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma (MM). You are working through the five stages of grief. You have decided to undergo induction therapy if only to bring your MM under control.
Before you begin your chemotherapy treatments you want to read up on any helpful hints, any tips and tricks that might make the treatments easier to handle. Be they short-term or long-term, the mind-body therapies discussed below will help you manage your chemo, radiation and/or surgery in the days, weeks and months ahead.
It could be difficult to keep your spirits up during one of the most stressful times of your life for you and your family. However, I have found that we MM patients must manage our minds as well as manage our bodies and MM. The tips and tricks below are a few of the ways I was able to manage my own mental health when I was going through active MM treatment myself.
Here are some ways you can boost your mood during cancer treatments.
I am a long-term multiple myeloma survivor and MM cancer coach. Have you been diagnosed with multiple myeloma? Are you undergoing chemotherapy? Scroll down the page, post a question or a comment and I will reply to you ASAP.
Thanks,
David Emerson
- Multiple Myeloma Survivor
- MM Cancer Coach
- Director PeopleBeatingCancer
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“If you’re about to go for your first round of chemotherapy, you may have lots of questions along with some fears. Your oncologist will talk about the drugs you will receive and potential side effects, as well as how often you will need to be seen. Yet there are many tips that don’t often make their way into those conversations, and if they do, you’ll likely have more questions when you get back home…
- Eat Light and Stay Well-Hydrated
- Pre-Chemo Blood Tests 101
- Ask Questions About Each Drug
- Post-Chemo Medications
- Staying Hydrated by Drinking Fluids
- Plan on Having a Support Buddy
- Plan on Having a Support Buddy
- Allow for Fatigue and Recovery
Music can be an integral part of therapy and can lift your spirits. Listening to your favorite songs can help you relax and give you the consistent comfort you need as your moods shift during treatments.
Practice your breathing to help your mind and muscles relax. Meditation, yoga and healing touch techniques can ease your mind and decrease your stress levels. If you’re up and moving or lying in your bed, these are practices you can employ wherever you are and during the various stages of your treatment process.
You’re having to experience a lot of emotions all at once. Talk with a family member or close friend about what you’re experiencing. If you don’t want to worry a loved one, then consider speaking with someone outside of your current realm to help you through your thoughts and feelings. Talking with a licensed mental health professional could aid you as you work through your cancer treatments and a rollercoaster of emotions and physical ailments. Learn all you can about your cancer and treatment and read blogs from others.
Cancer treatments decrease your white blood cell count, which can increase your chances of getting infections. Nip that in the bud by making sure you cook your food well and keep kitchen items clean to avoid exposure to bacteria. Purchasing organic dairy, meats and produce will also limit pesticide exposure and other chemicals that could coincide with your treatment. Also try to avoid anything with artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives. Drink tea whenever you can. The antioxidants in white or green tea is thought to decrease the chances of your cancer spreading and also can protect your liver from radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
Do what you love and makes you feel comfortable and at home in your own skin. If you love writing, then write in a journal every day. It could help you pour your soul and feelings onto the page, which has therapeutic benefits. Watch your favorite TV show, window shop online, read books, play video games — do whatever makes you and your mind happy and able to relax from the effects of your treatment.
While this presents some challenges during chemotherapy and radiation treatments, remaining active helps increase and maintain your energy levels and decrease your anxiety and depression during this time. Engage in moderate exercise, such as tai chi, walking and yoga. Consult with your doctor before starting your own exercise regimen and don’t try to overachieve with your comfort zone. Do what you can in the moment.
