www.womanthismonth.com October 2016 63 Breast Cancer Support Groups in Bahrain – Bahrain Breast Cancer Society – Arabic Call 17 233-080 or email [email protected] – Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group – English Call 39 567-322 or check their Facebook page – Bahrain Breast Cancer Society: Think Pink Bahrain www.thinkpinkbahrain. com, facebook/ thinkpinkbahrain and @ thinkpinkbahrain Call 39 076-717 or email info@thinkpinkbahrain. com maintain a healthy diet. Eating what you enjoy at a particular time is important. For example, preparing a healthy granita can help relieve mouth ulcers. Sipping on tea can be energising and refreshing. Green tea or ginger tea spritzers or popsicles can combat nausea, which is another common side effect. Remember that the bad taste in your mouth is only temporary.” Exercise during treatment is something that is not only important for the physical self, but also for mental wellness. Julie assures that simple isometrics or gentle exercise improves overall perspective and attitude. “It has been proven that stress debilitates your immune system, which is something we want to avoid, especially at such a crucial time. Breathe, clear your mind and lower stress by prayer, meditation, yoga or anything that you find soothing. There are many alternative methods that can help you get better; do some research, but rely on correct and evidencebased sources of information. Always check with your doctor before using any alternative methods of healing,” Julie advises. Your Emotions and Breast Cancer “I always tell patients that this is a time for you. You need to put yourself first. There will be many people that just want to know what’s going on – they may mean well but you need positivity surrounding you,” says Julie. She suggests putting together a support team to help you cope with all the challenges you may face. “Have one captain and a support crew of caregivers. Delegate duties for transport, shopping, preparation of meals – everyone can contribute, but on your terms,” she says. Anxiety, depression and fear are common fallouts of hearing a positive cancer diagnosis and while undergoing targeted treatment for it. However, there are various ways in which to better cope with the gamut of emotions. Research shows that acupuncture boosts the immune system and releases natural painkillers. It may also help to alleviate fatigue, anxiety and nausea. Julie adds that yoga and reiki have shown beneficial support to patients, pre- and post-chemotherapy, although patients must always inform their consultant of any complementary therapies used. A specialised massage can also drain out the lymphatic fluids to prevent or help with lymphedema and Think Pink has supported training for these specialist therapists. Patients have said that music can be a great mood enhancer. Believe in the power of music and make that playlist of your favourite songs. Communicate your feelings to those close to you or write in a journal as a form of catharsis. Julie says, “Keep your mind and spirit awake – as individuals we all have different ways of coping. You need to find yours and know that there are people and entities within easy reach, ready to help you through your difficulties. Joining a support group could be of tremendous help.” An easy way of obtaining nutrients is to drink organic juices and soups; try them in their frozen forms (as homemade popsicles) if your mouth is too sore to eat.
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