Receiving a cancer diagnosis can make juggling work and personal health feel overwhelming. If you're continuing to work while undergoing treatment, it's crucial to pay attention to your mental health. The article The Idealist Guide to Caring for Your Mental Health offers helpful advice that can be particularly useful for anyone facing the challenges of cancer and work. Recognizing when work stress is turning into something more serious, like anxiety or depression, is an important first step in managing both your health and your career.
It's important to seek help early. Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and stress from work can make things worse. If you're starting to feel overwhelmed, it's vital to address the issue before it negatively impacts your daily life. The sooner you reach out for support, whether through therapy or talking to a manager, the better.
Taking regular breaks, getting some exercise, and using mindfulness apps to help track and manage your emotions are all small changes that can make a big difference, especially when you're dealing with the added stress of cancer treatment. Even a few minutes of mindfulness during the workday can help ground you and ease anxiety.
Finally, don’t forget to explore the resources available through your employer. Many organizations offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide counseling services at no cost. Taking advantage of these services can provide the emotional support you need while balancing work and cancer treatment. Prioritizing your mental health is key to navigating the challenges ahead and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
For more on this topic, join us for our final Balancing Work and Cancer webinar of the year, where we'll focus on the essential topic of Self-Care. This session will complement the ideas explored in the article, and you'll walk away with valuable expert insights to help you prioritize your well-being as you enter the new year. Don't miss this opportunity to start 2025 with a fresh perspective on self-care! Register now.
Additional Resources
- Archived recordings of Setting Boundaries and Managing Long-Term Stress webinars
- Setting Professional Boundaries
- Your Mindset
- Relieving Stress