A Mesothelioma Patient's Guide for the Holidays

The holiday season is meant to be a time filled with joy and celebration. But when you're battling mesothelioma, this can be a particularly challenging time of year. While family and friends exude holiday cheer, you may be experiencing a mix of emotions that make you feel out of sync with the rest of the world. Feelings of happiness and excitement may be clouded by sadness, uncertainty and even anger. When you have mesothelioma or asbestos cancer the hustle and bustle of the season can leave you overwhelmed and physically exhausted.

If you're finding it hard to get into the holiday spirit this year, know that you're not alone. Many people—even those who aren't affected by serious illness like mesothelioma—suffer from heightened stress, anxiety and depression during the holidays. However, there are things you can do to help make the holidays more manageable and enjoyable, even with mesothelioma:

Simplify your shopping. While you still may wish to buy gifts for your loved ones, you may not have the stamina to brave crowded malls and long lines. If you have mesothelioma you should consider shopping online. You’ll be able to do this from home (or even a hospital bed, if your facility offers wireless Internet service). Many Internet retailers will even gift wrap and include personalized greeting cards with your gifts for a small fee. Some mesothelioma patients may also decide to purchase gift cards. These are widely available from most popular stores and restaurants, in a variety of denominations.

Ask for decorating help. Still want a festively decorated home for the holidays, but you're not up to the task? Ask friends, neighbors or family members for help decorating your tree and putting up lights and other adornments. This will allow you to enjoy a long-held tradition while getting the rest you need to battle mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma patients must learn how to say "no." You may feel obligated to attend every function or gathering you’re invited to, but it’s important to set limits on your socializing. If you have mesothelioma, entertaining guests and traveling can be both physically and emotionally draining. Use discretion when scheduling visits to and from friends and family. And if you need to leave a gathering early (or skip it entirely), make no apologies and resist feelings of guilt. People will understand if you’re unable to participate in all activities.

Have your holiday meal catered. If you or your spouse is traditionally the one to do all of the holiday cooking, consider other options for your family feast. Many supermarkets today will prepare a scrumptious holiday meal with all the fixings for a reasonable price. Other ideas for hassle-free holiday meals: make it a "potluck" affair, meaning that everybody brings a dish instead of one person having to do all the work. Some mesothelioma patients invite everybody to meet up at a favorite local restaurant.

When you have mesothelioma, make rest a priority. It's important for mesothelioma patients— especially those going through treatment— to rest frequently. This is especially true during the holidays. Learn to recognize when your body needs rest, and take the time to lie down or nap—even if it's just for 20 minutes. Meeting your body’s needs for rest can help you keep your energy levels up—and stress levels down.

Stick to a holiday budget. With the holidays becoming increasingly focused on gift-giving, it's easy to overspend. However, buying lavish or excessive gifts for others will not ease the negative emotions you may be experiencing during the holidays. If you have mesothelioma it is important to try to mitigate as much stress as possible. Avoid added financial stress by deciding how much you can afford to spend, creating a realistic budget and sticking to it.

Be true to your feelings. During the holiday season, there can be extra pressure from those around you to be cheerful and festive. While it's important to maintain a positive outlook, don't put on a happy face for the sake of appearances. Allow yourself to experience what you’re feeling, and know that these emotions are normal and ok for someone afflicted with mesothelioma. If the negative thoughts become too much to bear, call someone you trust, such as a counselor, clergy member or close friend for a listening ear.

Finally, if you have mesothelioma, avoid the temptation to compare this holiday season to years past, when you might have been more able to partake in activities. Instead, focus on the things you are grateful for, and allow yourself to experience what the holidays truly mean amidst the glitz and the gift-giving: enjoying the company of those you love to the fullest.

- MesoRC Editor