Older people are sometimes at higher risk of feeling depressed when dealing with their diagnosis and during the counseling treatment process. Feelings of loss, other illnesses, social isolation, and stress related to loved ones are just some of the problems that older people can face. Caregivers may also experience some of these problems, along with the stress associated with caring for their loved ones.
The good news is that there are simple habits you can adopt as part of your daily life to help cheer you up. Even just taking some time to accept your feelings can positively affect your mood.
Take Care Of Your Emotional Well-Being
Although there is a lot of talk about maintaining physical health about cancer treatment, it is also important to take care of emotional well-being. Here are some ideas that may help:
Keep your Mind Active
Exercise your mind and have some fun too. Activities like reading a book, listening to an audiobook, or doing a puzzle may be just what you need to help you get rid of sadness or keep your mind busy while you are receiving treatment. You can search for “free games” on the internet and access different games to keep your mind active. Also, consider listening to recorded lectures or courses taught by teachers or other trainers.
Talk to a Professional
About 1 in 4 people with cancer have depression. It is normal for sad feelings to come and go. But if they persist, or if you have a feeling of sadness that affects your treatment or your daily life, it is recommended that you speak to a professional Greatest Moments. Knowing that it is okay to “not be okay” and reaching out to a professional can help you healthily work through your feelings.
Have Quiet Moments
Sit and breathe for a few minutes in a quiet place, without television or cell phones. This is sometimes known as “meditation” or “mindfulness.” You may find that focusing on something for a few minutes makes you feel better. Imagine putting your thoughts into a balloon or sailboat and then watching them drift away. You can try it on your own, but there are also free guided meditation websites and apps. Sometimes just hearing a calm voice telling you to breathe in and out can help you feel more relaxed. Some other tools and resources can help you learn about mindfulness.
Get Physical Exercise
Your physical health and mental health go hand in hand. This means that improving your physical health can also help you improve your emotional well-being. Go for a walk or try low-impact exercises and stretches. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program to find out what is best for you.
Stay Connected
Being social can also be helpful. There is a lot of technology these days that you can use to stay in touch with friends and family. You can do this without leaving home using your phone, computer or tablet. You can play an online game together or schedule a phone or video call every Sunday night.
Get some Fresh Air
A change of scenery and a little sun can go a long way. Spend time outdoors. Go to a park, sit on the patio, or enjoy a picnic. Always follow the advice of your doctor and local health authorities about safety measures while outdoors.
Write a Diary
Keeping a journal has many benefits. Labeling your feelings and acknowledging them has a positive effect on your mood. All you need is a pen and paper! You can start by freewriting or following guided prompts that you can find online. If writing isn’t your thing, there are also coloring books designed for adults, which can help increase mindfulness. You can find them online or at many craft stores and bookstores.
Start a New Hobby
Or rediscover a hobby you gave up a long time ago. If you like animals or nature, have you considered bird watching? Or maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to paint or improve your cooking skills. If an idea appeals to you, go for it!
