Tips for Family Members of Patients

Breast cancer patients are not the only people who are affected by the diagnosis. Family members and loved ones are also impacted tremendously by the onset of cancer. It is important for them to learn how to cope with the situation, just as much as the patient.

It is natural for people to take some time to process how they are feeling before they can express themselves in a healthy manner. This often leads to family and loved ones bearing the brunt of angry, vented feelings from the patient. Be aware that if you are on the receiving end of this anger, it is not stemming from feelings about you personally; it is just a way for the person to vent without having to openly share what they are going through just yet. It is also normal for you to feel anger and frustration as well; it is all part of the coping process. 

Additionally, family and loved ones might also be dealing with issues evolving from increased responsibilities while attempting to sort out their own emotions. When emotions seem to be getting the best of everyone involved, it is always good to keep the lines of communication open. Simply offering to lend a listening ear could help the patient feel more comfortable and keep tensions to a minimum. Your presence is often the best form of support you can offer to a person who is not yet ready to open up. It is also okay to let the patient know how you are feeling about the whole process, sharing your fears and worries as well. If everyone is honest about his or her thoughts and feelings it allows everyone to work through a very difficult time together (For Spouses, Families, and Friends).

Here are some additional resources on the above mentioned topic:

Websites:
http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/002813-pdf.pdf

http://bcresourcedirectory.org/directory/09-family_partner_caregiver.htm

Video:
Caregiver Advice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onDkmTJgc7s


References:
After Diagnosis: A Guide for Patients and Families. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, 1999.               Web.

"Caregiver Advice: Breast Cancer Patient's Psychological Signs to Look out For." YouTube.                        YouTube, n.d. Web. 21 July 2015.

"Family, Partner And Caregiver Issues." Family, Partner And Caregiver Issues. N.p., n.d. Web. 04              Aug. 2015.

"For Spouses, Families, and Friends." For Spouses, Families, and Friends. N.p., 26 June 2014.              Web. 21 July 2015.