Fighting Cancer: 3 Ways to Battle Loneliness During Cancer Treatment by Shannon Benish

It's hard to imagine that in a bustling hospital filled people that a person could ever feel lonely, but it was in that period I felt the greatest sense of loneliness I had ever experienced. My daughter had been diagnosed with pediatric cancer and we were six hours from home.

As we make our way into the holiday season, please keep in mind friends or family that may be struggling with a recent loss or diagnosis. Loneliness can happen any time of year, but the holiday season can amplify the feeling even more. If you or a loved one are experiencing loneliness, here are some tips to help make it more manageable:

• First, be honest. If a friend asks what they can do to help suggest a day out or to spend time together.

• Your physician’s office or hospital can put you in touch with local support groups. If none are available in your area a Google search can offer groups you can join online. Patients belonging to these groups are very understanding because they are fighting the same battle.

• Move out of your comfort zone. Strike up a conversation with another patient in the infusion center or waiting room. They may be experiencing the same feelings of loneliness that you are. 

Most importantly, just reach out. You'll be happy you did. Know that you are never alone and your cancer "tribe" is there for you. 

Get more tips about battling loneliness during cancer treatments. 

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