Question: How can I enjoy the holidays when I have been recently diagnosed with lung cancer?

Answer: The holiday season may not feel as merry and bright when coping with a cancer diagnosis and treatment. You may wonder how to balance your appointments while making time for the special festivities. You might be worried about how your side effects will impact you, or maybe you just don’t feel like celebrating. All of these feelings are understandable.

The following tips can help you manage the holidays after a lung cancer diagnosis:

Allow for mixed emotions

It is common to feel multiple emotions, even opposite ones, at the same time. This year, you may notice that holiday decorations spark both joy and sadness. You may feel grateful and sorrowful as you gather around the dinner table with family and friends. In these moments, remind yourself that your feelings are valid and can exist together. Check in with yourself often throughout the holiday season to identify your emotions and allow yourself time to process and express them.

Know your limits

Keep track of how you are feeling physically as well. If you are experiencing grief or side effects from a lung cancer diagnosis or treatment, traditions and activities that you usually love may now be overwhelming. Practice saying no or adapting plans to meet your current needs. For example, if you typically host the big holiday meal, let someone else host it this year or turn it into a potluck. Plan ahead for how you will tackle gift shopping and share holiday greetings—mailing cards or making phone calls. Consider what will be easiest for you and be gentle with yourself. Make sure to reserve your energy for your favorite traditions that will still bring you joy this year.

Care for yourself

Even during this busy season, it is important to maintain a daily routine and carve out time to practice any coping skills that you have, like going for a walk or reading. Try to find the right balance between being with others and spending time alone. Overall wellness, including sleep, diet, and exercise, are also important. Make a list of family and friends who you can count on to be part of your holiday support system. If you’re not sure that anyone will understand, find a new community through GO2’s Gathering HOPE or contact our HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or by emailing support@go2.org to find support.

Please note that the information included in any published answer is for educational pursuit only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation. Nothing from GO2 for Lung Cancer should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion.