Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis: Support, Nutrition & Holistic Healing
The Big C... A Cancer Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis can feel like your world is crashing down. It’s overwhelming, terrifying, and feels like control has been ripped away. It can feel like you're drowning in a storm of emotions—shock, denial, panic, anger, fear, guilt, anxiety…
But amidst the chaos, there are ways to regain some control, to find moments of peace, and to navigate this journey in a way that feels right for you. You are unique. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s okay. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for how you cope, how you feel, or how you choose to live your life.
If you seek, you may find answers and coping mechanisms that bring comfort and strength. Here are some that may help:
Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis
Accept & Express Your Feelings
“Why me?” is a question that never leads to peace. Cancer does not discriminate—even the healthiest people can be diagnosed. You did not cause this, and you are not to blame. Allow yourself to feel, to grieve, to be angry. And when you’re ready, talk to someone you trust.
Reconnect with Nature
Walk in the woods, by the sea, or anywhere with fresh air and open space. Nature heals in ways we don’t always understand.
Try Meditation
When sleep feels impossible and your mind is racing, meditation can be a lifeline. There are simple techniques that can help calm your nervous system, especially at night.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping up your fluids can reduce treatment side effects and help flush out toxins.
Nourish Your Body
Eat as well as you can when you can. Prioritise protein (vegan sources or hospital-recommended protein shakes) to maintain muscle mass. Dark leafy greens, healthy carbs, and fibre support your gut and immune system. Your microbiome is key to overall health.
Rest When You Need To
You don’t need to be a hero. Listen to your body. Move when you can, but don’t push yourself too hard. Rest is healing.
Exploring Alternative Therapies
Dietitians/Nutritionists – Help with nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and immunity.
Acupuncture/Reflexology – May ease hot flushes, nausea, pain, neuropathy, insomnia, stress, and anxiety
Physio/Osteopathy – Supports mobility and pain management
Healing/Reiki – Aids relaxation, reduces stress and tension, and improves sleep
Yoga/Tai Chi/Pilates – Help with stiffness, mobility, and pain
Supplements & Dietary Aids
Certain nutrients may be beneficial, such as Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Turmeric, Fermented Vegetables, Calcium, and Omega-3s—but always consult your oncologist before adding supplements.
Advocate for Yourself
Ask every question, even if you think it’s silly. This is your body, your life, your journey.
Find Support
There are many cancer charities offering emotional, financial, and practical help. Macmillan, Maggie’s, Future Dreams, and Cancer Research UK are just a few—find one that resonates with you.
Visualisation & Trusting the Process
Imagine a powerful white healing light—from the universe, from the sun—entering every cell in your body, healing you. Keep this light with you during treatments, scans, or difficult moments.
Do what you can, and for everything else… trust the universe. ❤️