Cancer changes everything about ones self-image, but that doesnt mean it is a negative outcome.

As cancer treatment begins, a persons body may begin to look and feel different, which can impact self-image and sense of self. Treatments can also bring physical scars, hair loss, weight changes, loss of limbs or organs, the need for an ostomy, reduced fertility or other changes, all of which impact a persons physical relationship with their body and have lasting social and emotional impacts.

CANCER ALTERS SENSE OF SELF

Because sense of self plays a significant role in how we interact with the world and relate to others, people who experience physical changes as a result of cancer may not feel comfortable doing things they wouldnt have given a second thought to before, such as meeting new people or going out in public. For those whove experienced physical changes, its important to talk about these feelings, understand that theyre normal and recognize that it takes time to emotionally adjust to the new physical realities.

Managing emotional concerns related to self-image is an ongoing process. People with cancer must acknowledge what happened to them and how it affects their day to day. This requires navigating a sense of emotional and physical loss and confronting how they see them- selves and how they think the world may see them too. In an episode of Cancer Out Loud: The CancerCare Podcast, Bianca, a cancer survivor, said, It doesnt matter the age, just the idea that you are removing your entire breast. I lost everything. ... You dont feel beautiful. Bianca later related living with physical changes like hair loss to playing a role as an actress: Im saying to myself, This is a part, and Im playing this part until I finish chemo. Im beautiful in my own way.

FINDING SUPPORT AND STRENGTH AFTER CANCER

Because physical changes can be reminders of the disease and its treatments, they can be difficult to reconcile with how someone previously viewed themselves. Individual counseling can help survivors process the uniquely personal impact of cancer and transition to a new physical reality by offering a safe, supportive and uncensored environment to express thoughts and feelings.

Oncology social workers, counselors, therapists or supportive professionals may be able to share strategies for practicing mindfulness, self-care and kindness amidst this emotionally turbulent experience. Additionally, joining a support group and connecting with people facing similar challenges can also help lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation. As much as friends and family want to understand, they often cant relate. Support groups are a place where survivors can express their fears, feelings and experiences with other people who truly understand because theyre living with cancer, too.

Although physical changes can serve as reminders of negative and painful memories, they can also be symbols of strength.

When you are pale yellow and your skin is totally different, its harder to feel beautiful, said Bianca. (Cancer helped me realize that) its all (about) the heart. I feel beautiful in a different way. Its not the outside beauty. The beauty is inside us and now Im a strong believer of this.

Original post:
Cancer And Your Self-Image: Adjusting Is an Ongoing Process - Curetoday.com