Navigating Cancer

A comprehensive collection of tools, frameworks, and perspectives to improve your quality of life after a cancer diagnosis Navigating Cancer: Research Supported Tools to Help You Cope with the Emotional and Physical Impact of Cancer offers a comprehensive roadmap for managing the extraordinary challenges posed by cancer. Dr. Jennifer Kilkus draws on her extensive expertise in psycho-oncology to offer accessible, evidence-based strategies that help people with cancer manage the psychological and physical impacts of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. This groundbreaking resource recognizes that cancer affects the whole person and provides practical tools to improve your quality of life. You’ll discover: A holistic biopsychosocial approach addressing emotional and physical cancer-related concerns in one comprehensive resource Integrated techniques from several evidence-based frameworks such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy A patient-friendly writing style that makes complex psychological concepts accessible without requiring professional guidance Practical exercises and examples in each chapter that you can put into practice immediately Written specifically for the most common concerns experienced by millions of people with cancer worldwide, Navigating Cancer is a supportive and authoritative companion for everyone interested in more effectively managing the impact of this disease. Whether you're newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or navigating life after cancer, you'll discover proven strategies to cope more effectively, prevent symptoms from worsening, and enhance the quality of your life.

Welcome ix About the Companion Website xv Part I Welcome: What's in this book and how to make best use of it 1 Part II Getting an Aerial View: Building a broader understanding of what goes into health and well-being; learning your unique patterns in how you manage both emotional and physical challenges 3 1 Cancer and the Mind–Body Connection 5 2 What Does It Mean to "Cope"? 15 Part III Laying the Groundwork: Understanding how self-compassion, mindfulness, and acceptance can give you a solid foundation for dealing with things outside of your control 25 3 Making Friends with Yourself 27 4 Building Awareness and Learning to Let Go 34 Part IV Adding to Your Toolbox: A broad set of strategies to manage the challenges that come alongside cancer 43 5 Making Space for Grief 45 6 Talking Back to That Voice in Your Head 50 7 Working with Your Body 63 8 Pacing Yourself 75 9 Keeping Track 85 10 Navigating Your Needs 93 11 Finding Your Compass: Building a Meaningful Life with and Beyond Cancer 106 Part V Resources 121 12 Finding a Team 123 Acknowledgments 127 References 128 Index 138