some—maybe not all, but some—of them will change. You might also become part of a support group in your area. It may be very important to fight the unwanted aloneness that can be so depressing.
3. Make sure you are not acting like a recluse.
Many people with cancer find it difficult to be with their friends and family in the way they were before the diagnosis. If you are having similar feelings, decide whether that's what you really want. If not, remember that although cancer has brought about physical and emotional changes that may make it more difficult to communicate, you are basically the same person you were before you developed cancer. Revitalizing old relationships is probably easier than you think. Do what you can to renew relationships and not be alone more than you want to be. Tell your friends what you are feeling and ask them to help you not be reclusive. Communicate, communicate, communicate.
4. Regain and maintain as much control over your life as is reasonable.
Most cancer patients have to give up some control over their lives to health professionals, family and friends. So will you, probably. But don't give up more than you need or want to. Make a list of the control you've lost and make a conscious decision about what is reasonable for you to take back. Feeling that you're not in control is a very unpleasant emotion.
