HELP FOR CANCER
Cancer can be so frightening that many people can’t even say the word. In fact, many now can’t even say: “the C-word.” A diagnosis of cancer brings with it some intense, frightening emotions. Depression, anxiety and anger can become all consuming and paralyzing.
Unfortunately, the emotional side of cancer is rarely addressed as a part of treatment. Despite an overwhelming body of research showing the crucial role attitude plays in making treatment effective. The depression and the fear impair the cancer victim’s ability to doctor-shop effectively and comply with treatment. Depression causes the activity level to drop and takes the “fight” out of the patient. Fear quite frankly causes people to self-sabotage.
A healthy lifestyle is crucial in treating cancer. But lifestyle change means behavior change, and behavior change is difficult. Dr. Lightstone will show you techniques that help you make these changes, improving your diet and approach to exercise.
You will learn that exercise can decrease or increase problems with stress, and you will be shown how to exercise the right way, for better stress management. You will learn what foods act as natural tranquilizers and antidepressants, and what foods cause anxiety and depression. You will learn to separate the facts from the myths and plan a diet that is optimal for your health. You will set the behavior change goals, and Dr. Lightstone will help you achieve them. And you will learn to “give meaning” to this challenging period in your life, inspiring you to find happiness and quality of life in spite of your illness.
What is a Health Psychologist?
Health psychologists use psychological methods to help people suffering from medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Health psychologists work with oncologists and other health professionals to provide a complete treatment that considers the patient’s attitude and behavior as essential parts of an effective protocol.
Most of you learned the basic skills for reading, writing and arithmetic in grade school. But how many of you know the basic skills for managing the painful emotions that come with a cancer?
As a certified health psychologist, Dr. Lightstone will teach you these skills and examine with you the dynamic interplay between emotions and cancer. You will learn skills to modify your attitude, change your behavior and adopt healthy lifestyle practices. And you will learn to “give meaning” to this challenging period in your life, inspiring you to find happiness and quality of life in spite of your illness.