Stress in Pediatric Cancer
Pediatric cancer is a tough battle that takes a toll on children’s physical and emotional health. And it’s not just about the treatments or side effects. Stress becomes a constant companion for both the children and their families. Therefore, it’s important to look at stress in pediatric cancer and explore ways to provide emotional support during this challenging journey.
Stress Begins at Diagnosis
Stress in pediatric cancer begins at the time of diagnosis. This is a time when there is so much to comprehend both medically and emotionally. For example, families are faced with the challenge of trying to understand the diagnosis. Not to mention trying to cope with the emotional stress of having just learned their child has cancer. Children with cancer and their families face a range of physical, emotional, and psychological issues. This can all lead to stress.
Roller Coaster of Emotions: Stress in Pediatric Cancer
Imagine being a child and hearing the words “You have cancer.” In the first place, it’s scary. It’s also confusing and overwhelming. It’s no wonder children with cancer experience a whirlwind of emotions. Going through painful treatments and feeling like they’ve lost control adds to their emotional distress. Indeed, it’s a lot for anyone to handle, let alone a child.
Stress in Pediatric Cancer – The Family’s Struggle
Cancer doesn’t just impact the child; in fact, it affects the entire family. To be sure, parents and caregivers are under constant stress. For example, there is the stress of dealing with the diagnosis. And then there is the added stress of treatment decisions and financial strain. Not to mention the never-ending worry about their child’s well-being. In addition, siblings may feel left out or overshadowed. This adds another layer of emotional weight. And, of course, all this tension can affect your child’s stress level, as they pick up on the atmosphere around them.
Pediatric cancer is a disease that disrupts a child’s physical, social, and emotional well-being.
Treatment often involves surgeries, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. This can all be overwhelming for children. Prolonged hospital stays, or numerous clinic visits can also add to a child’s stress level.
Spotting Stress Red Flags
To help children with cancer, it’s important to identify signs of stress. For example, keep an eye out for changes in behavior, disrupted sleep patterns, increased irritability or clinginess. Other signs of stress include a dip in academic performance or withdrawal from activities or friends. Signs of stress can also include/physical complaints like headaches or tummy troubles.
Stress-Busting Strategies Caregivers Can Use
There are many strategies that you can use to help reduce stress. Here are just a few suggestions that you can try:
1. Talk the Talk: Knowledge is power! Arm yourself with accurate information about cancer, treatment options, and possible side effects. Check in regularly with your child’s healthcare team and have honest and open communication with them. This gives you a way to address your fears and concerns head-on.
2. Strength in Numbers: Connect with others going through similar experiences. Local or on-line support networks can provide a sense of community and help reduce your feeling of being alone. Pediatric cancer organizations and online platforms are treasure troves of resources and information. They can also provide opportunities to share stories and support each other.
3. Caring for the Caregivers. Don’t forget about taking care of yourself – you are the superhero behind the scenes! Your well-being is crucial in your child’s care. Make sure to use self-care practices like exercise, relaxation techniques, and taking breaks. It’s okay to ask for help and take time for yourself—it’s not selfish; it’s necessary!
Stress-Busting Strategies for Cancer Patient
1. Buddy Up with Psychosocial Support: It’s crucial to include psychosocial support in your child’s care plan. Specialists like child life experts, psychologists, and social workers can provide kid-friendly explanations and teach coping skills. They can also create safe spaces for emotional expression through art or play therapy. It’s like having a personal cheerleading squad by their side.
Support groups and individual counseling sessions can also be beneficial. They can help your child express feelings and find healthy coping skills.
2. Distraction Techniques: Engaging children in activities that distract them during medical visits and procedures can help them cope with stress. Listening to music, storytelling, creating art projects, or journaling, are all good distraction techniques. Using Wi-Fi ready electronics like the ones Mikey’s Way distributes also offer great distraction.
3. Coping Strategies: Try some coping strategies to help lift your child’s emotions. “Feel Your Best Self” offers a great toolkit to explore emotion-coping strategies to calm your child and his/her feelings.
Creating a Nurturing Environment
Pediatric cancer is an emotional roller coaster for everyone involved. Open communication with health care providers is important. Indeed, connecting with support networks and prioritizing self-care go a long way in helping to reduce stress. Together with your child’s healthcare team, you can create a nurturing environment. This empowers your child to face cancer with courage, resilience, and a sprinkle of hope.