How do I cope as a patient?

The childhood cancer experience is a tough one, not only because of the treatment, but also because of the emotions, changes, and uncertainties that come with it. Nobody (patient, parents, families) can do it on their own. As a childhood cancer community, we are here to walk the journey with you.  

Remember that it is not your fault that you have cancer and you did nothing to cause it. Focus on today (the present) and take things one step, one treatment, one day at a time. 

Learn to lean on others and let people support you; you don’t have to be strong all the time.

Talk about your feelings. If you keep your emotions to yourself, you might start to worry, and this is not a good place for where you are in your life. You need help.  Using creative outlets like drawing, writing, music, or playing can help you express feelings that are hard to put into words. Ask questions, because if you understand what is happening to you and what to expect, you might feel less scared. 

When in hospital, you might want a familiar item (a favourite blanket, toy, or book a family photo) to make  the hospital feel more like home and to bring comfort. If there is a hospital school, ward volunteers to do activities,  a play group or a play therapist, take part in the activities as this will bring a feeling of normality to an abnormal world. Play games, build puzzles, watch movies, use apps on your telephone, iPad or tablet to stimulate your creative mind, to help pass time and take your mind off treatment. Make friends with the other patients in the ward – remember they are in the same positions as you.  

Listening to or creating music can help you to relax, improve mood, and foster creativity. Music therapy has been used effectively to reduce stress and anxiety in children undergoing cancer treatment.

Celebrate small wins for e.g. finishing a round of medicine, going home for the weekend, or even just getting through a tough day. 

Sleep helps healing - rest when you need to. The treatment can make you very tired, and that’s normal. Your appetite might change due to the treatment,  but it is important to eat healthy – although it might be difficult sometimes. Food helps your body to get healthy and strong.  

Stay connected. In some countries, children can link up with their teacher and classmates through video calls. If this is not available, use phone calls or messages to stay connected with friends and family to remind you that you’re not alone. 

This article has been written based on the experience of childhood cancer advocates, and drawing on inspiration from the following articles and research papers:

Aimee K Hildebrand, et.al. 2015. A mixed methods assessment of coping with pediatric cancer. 

Geralyn Dexter. Reviewed by Melissa Bronstein, LICSW. 2024. The Benefits of Art Therapy. 

Children’s Health. (n.d.). Tips to cope with a childhood cancer diagnosis. 

Davina Tiwari, Reviewed by Dena Wesphalen. 2023. Coping With Cancer: 15 Strategies for Emotional Wellbeing. 

Michael Vallejo. 2024. (n.d.). 10 Printable Coping Skills Worksheets for Kids & Teens.

Krista H Counseling. 2021. 75 Coping Skills for Kids (FREE Printable). 

CHOC. 2022. Coping with a child’s cancer diagnosis: helpful techniques for parents, kids and siblings.