You may be accustomed to the holidays being one of the most joyous times of the year. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, however, the entire season is cast in a different light. With the challenges of staying optimistic, it’s helpful to have ways to cope with the health and family concerns so the season can be better appreciated. Here are three strategies to keep in mind.

How to Cope With Cancer During the Holidays

1. Be Social When You Can

Health permitting, cancer patients should make plans to celebrate the season with friends and family members. You’re a social creature just like everyone else, and having an illness doesn’t make you long for human contact any less. Make sure you’re selective about what invitations you accept so you can focus your full energy on the gatherings most important to you.

2. Acknowledge & Reframe Expectations

During the holiday season, family members often divide up certain roles among themselves. If you or a loved one is undergoing treatment for cancer this year, those roles may need to change.

Remember—and remind your friends and family—that just because someone has completed treatment doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re back to their full health yet, as the recuperation process takes time.

3. Talk to Your Health Care Team

Reach out to your health care team if you have questions about your treatment or want to know whether attending a certain event is a good idea or not. It helps to have an idea of how much of a load you should take on—and with what frequency. Your team of medical professionals will provide insight into your treatment and support you every step of the way.

If you’re interested in learning about cancer treatment, including questions about immunotherapy, oncology, and hormonal therapy, talk with the professionals at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC in Anchorage. The doctors and medical staff are dedicated to helping patients learn about their treatment options and take control of their health. To learn more about their clinic, visit them online or call (907) 279-3155.