"Anger is a natural, adaptive response to threats; it inspires powerful, often aggressive, feelings and behaviors, which allow us to fight and to defend ourselves when we are attacked. A certain amount of anger, therefore, is necessary to our survival."
-American Psychological Associaton APA
Many people experience anger upon learning of their cancer diagnosis. This feeling, like others, is natural, but it is often perceived as negative and may be avoided or suppressed. Through communication with many cancer patients, I have discovered that anger tends to increase over time and can evolve into a sense of injustice.
in this blog, I will attempt to explain the importance of this feeling in combating the disease. I will draw upon perspectives from the book "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind."
Disclaimer: Not all cancer patients have the same coping mechanisms when facing illness. This text may be helpful for some, but not for everyone.
Are you ready? Let's go!
"We are full of fears and anxieties, which makes us doubly cruel and merciless."
- Yuval Noah Harari.
If we open the books about the history of human development, we can find that on a biological level, we share many characteristics with other beings, such as cellular structure, genetic material, and physiological processes. However, on a spiritual, biological, and social level, we are recognized as human beings. These aspects include our ability to create and follow beliefs, establish societies, and develop cultures rich in art, language, and traditions.
Unlike us, tumoral masses or cancer cells are purely biological entities. They lack consciousness, the capacity for thought, spiritual awareness, and emotional expression. They are simply cells that grow and divide uncontrollably. While we both have cells that divide and grow and exhibit aggression in certain conditions, our predominance over cancer lies in our unique human abilities: advanced medical knowledge, innovative technologies, effective treatments, ongoing research, psychosocial support systems, and preventative measures.
Fighting cancer is akin to fighting for your homeland. Cancer cells, like invaders, attempt to destroy your body, weaken it, and take away your life. This fight resembles combatting injustice. Even when the reasons are unclear, you're aware that there is no easy way out. You may be terrified.
Whether rescuing your homeland or your body, psychological strength and readiness for pain are equally essential, along with fighting despite all your fears.
"My anger helps me"
You may agree that cancer cells in our body are invaders, akin to enemies to be fought against. You may be confused of facing it, and your fears and anxieties may intensify.
On the way of fighting cancer, you must educate yourself about your cancer, the diagnosis, its type and character, symptoms, treatment methods, and possible side effects.
Sometimes, you must rely on your biological instincts. Sometimes, you must convert your fear into anger and your anxiety into a relentless determination to fight.
"Essentials for my survival"
Make your fighting plan.
Talk very often - with a supportive circle, with your family, friends, psychologist, and doctors. Use your inner psychological resources like faith.
Try to adopt a positive mindset with hope and gratitude.
Do not forget to take notes on a daily basis - journaling your little and big achievements.
Maintain a healthy diet
Sleep well, stay hydrated, and be active.
The cancer wins over you when it psychologically weakens you - As I've said before in my book, and now, it has become somewhat of a leitmotif in our lives.
Now, it's your turn.
Facing cancer, you must fight with a strong mindset.
Don't let it crush you.
Don't let it destroy you.
Don't be afraid! Become angry!
Like your ancestors, you must transform your anger into your opportunity to reshape your health.
Keep your head up! You are a warrior!
Final words:
With this post, I would like to express solidarity with the Georgian people, especially Georgian cancer patients who are affected by the ongoing political situation in the country. As a native Georgian myself, it's my mission to speak out and spread the Georgian people's message worldwide.
Recently, the Georgian government adopted a law identical to the Russian version, which poses a threat to free speech and human rights in the country.
This situation not only threatens the sovereignty of the country but also means that Georgian cancer patients will not receive quality psycho-social and physical treatment in a timely manner due to the crisis, the absence of necessary medications, and the overly stressful events happening in Georgia.
My followers and dear friends, please share this message with others, as the homeland of wine needs your support, peace, and an appropriate healthcare system in the country. This cannot be achieved under the current circumstances.
Kind wishes,
Nina
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