COPING WITH CANCER

When patients are diagnosed with cancer, the physical and emotional distress of the disease, and its treatment, can be overwhelming. Patients typically experience stress and varying levels of anxiety, fear, depression, and the feeling that they are losing control over their bodies and their lives. Even more debilitating is the anticipation of chemotherapy and its unpleasant physical side effects.

The National Cancer Institute recommends the use of techniques such as visualization, imagery, relaxation, and focused attention to relieve stress and increase a sense of self-control. Through clinical hypnosis, the patient is taught to develop visualization and relaxation proficiency, preferred imagery, and to set personal goals. This enables patients to maximize the power of their brains with positive implications that exceed beyond their cancer treatment.

Dr. Daitch has developed a CD program dealing with the distress of cancer.