Emotional
Your Emotions | Dealing With Stress and Anxiety | Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder |
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Cancer diagnosis and treatment may lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Unfortunately, studies show ignoring these feelings may actually increase the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Kazak et al., 1997). PTSD is estimated to occur in as many as one-fifth of all pediatric cancer patients (President's Cancer Panel, p. 45). Symptoms of PTSD include:
- Recurring and distressing dreams or recollections about the traumatic event.
- Inability to recall important aspects of the trauma.
- Heightened arousal, such as nausea or increased heart rate, triggered by reminders of the original experience.
- Feelings of detachment from others.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Irritability or outbursts of anger.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts.
- Avoidance of stress-inducing settings and situations.
If you feel that you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, you may want to contact a professional counselor or your hospital social worker. For a list of specialists and support groups in your area, contact the National Association of Social Workers at www.naswdc.org or the American Psychological Association at 800-964-2000.