Physical exercise
It doesn’t have to be a grand fitness plan, just get your body moving. Walk around the block. Inhale some fresh air and raise your heart rate. Exercise has been proven to help manage feelings of anxiety, stress, depression and anger.
Talk it through
Call a support person, meet up for a coffee with a friend, see your psychologist/counselor, make an appointment with your GP. You can always call us at Rare Cancers Australia to let your frustrations or concerns out too, we will help you find appropriate support.
Have a rest
It doesn’t need to be an overseas holiday, even a few minutes to pause your mind, read a book or a magazine, have a massage or haircut, listen to a podcast or go for a walk. There are avenues to access respite care for short or long periods, which may give you the longer break you need.
Be kind to yourself
No one is perfect – it is an unusual, demanding role to have. There is no rule book.
Accept help
If people offer practical help, take it. It’s OK to say “Yes please”. Sometimes, with frequent appointments or potential medical emergencies, it’s good to have a regular roster or home-cooked meals arriving, or alternative transport for children to get around, or someone to do the cleaning at home. When people say tell me if you need anything, tell them right away! “I need someone to mow my lawn; I really need a break for an hour.”
Seek support online
Online support groups are plentiful – whether it be through Facebook, forums, blogs, group emails, various organisations’ online communities, etc. Connect in to find out whether seeing others’ similar experiences or talking through your difficulties with others helps you feel more supported and validated.
If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact the services below:
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
- If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 000