Distress Management

Fighting cancer takes its toll, not only on the body, but on the mind and spirit as well.

Distress is a normal response when you or someone you love receives a diagnosis of cancer.  Distress covers a wide range of emotions, including  powerlessness, anger, sadness, fear, depression, anxiety, and panic. In addition to your emotions, distress may also affect your thoughts and behavior. Many people describe this as “not feeling like themselves.”

Distress may become apparent in a number of areas of your life.  It is not unusual to find yourself suddenly having to cope with:

• Practical concerns (such as work, financial, insurance, or transportation issues)
• Family problems (relationship changes with your partner or children)
• Emotional problems (including depression, anxiety, mood changes, fatigue, or insomnia)
• Spiritual/Religious Concerns (such as grief, guilt, loss of faith, or loss of contact with a higher power or meaning)
• Physical Problems

We can help you cope with these challenges.  A licensed clinical social worker, psychiatric APRN, and chaplain are available to provide support to patients and their family members when they need it. These services can be accessed individually, as a family, or in support groups.

Please call (860) 358-2053 for more information or assistance.