What can I do to try to stay positive? Everyday my brain is telling me nothing will get better

I’m a brain cancer survivor, so unfortunately I have a lot of ptsd. I had to quit my job due to the anxiety that I’m constantly in. So now I’m unemployed and depressed on trip of the anxiety that I already have :(
Asked by Breezy
Answered
09/23/2022

Hi Breezy, 

Thank you so much for reaching out to BetterHelp.  It is often difficult to seek help when you need it the most.  I applaud your effort to seek help yourself as you face life stressors.  I hope the suggestions and resources I provide will assist you in your journey.

A good starting point is to ask yourself, what you want for your life.  What do you value?  Where do you see yourself in next 5, 10, or 15 years?  What are some current coping skills that may not be serving you at this time?  What are some new coping skills you can try?  Take an inventory of your life now.  See what serves you on an emotional basis. 

I recommend looking into support groups.  There may be support groups that specially created for cancer survivors like yourself.  Perhaps, you can reach out your previous cancer treatment providers to inquire if they know of any support groups.  Also, non-profits like the American Cancer Society may also have recommendations.  The general referral line for social services in most states is 211.  There may be more general support groups for depression and anxiety available in your local community.

Do what makes you happy and feel calm.  In other words, do some self care.  Activities can range from walking, talking to a friend, playing with a pet, and/or journaling.  It really is not wrong way to go about it (unless it involves harm to self or others).  Even consider consider connecting a forgone hobby from the past.

Last, but not least, see a medical professional.  There may be a connection between your brain cancer and current mental health issues.  A medical professional can help to rule out whether your symptoms are caused by your physical health or your mental health.  If you do not have insurance, apply for your state's insurance program.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful.

-NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a great resource if you just want someone to talk to.  They provide telephone-based non-crisis support for anyone struggling with mental health or substance use issues.  Their number is 877-910-9276.  Crisis text line to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 741-741  You can connect with crisis-trained counselors 24/7.
-If you are feeling suicidal, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.  You may consider reaching out to the 24-hour Suicide Prevention Hotline at 877-727-4747.
 
I do hope these suggestions are helpful for you.  Please give these a try and challenge distressing thoughts.  Give yourself some grace if some of the previously mentioned techniques did not help you or if you need to do them several times.  That is completely normal.  Focus on progress, not perfection.  If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me.  Also, the platform will give you an option to choose to work with me.  I really do help you find the type of support you need.  Do be kind to yourself and be well.

Sincerely,
Jeannie Meyers, LCSW