Going through immunotherapy for cancer can feel like stepping into a world that’s unfamiliar, both physically and emotionally. The body responds in new ways, daily routines shift, and your sense of identity might begin to feel distant or altered. While treatment is a vital step in fighting cancer, it’s also important to care for your mental and emotional well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more like yourself during immunotherapy cancer treatment.
Maintain a Routine (Even a Simple One)
Treatment days, appointments, and side effects can disrupt your daily schedule. But maintaining even a loose routine can provide a sense of normalcy and structure. Wake up at the same time each day, include short walks if you’re able, and carve out time for activities you enjoy, even if they’re scaled back.
Stay Connected to What You Love
Whether it’s a hobby, a pet, a favorite book series, or listening to music, staying connected to the things that bring you joy can help you feel grounded. These activities serve as a reminder that you are more than your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Be Open About Your Feelings
Immunotherapy can bring on a whirlwind of emotions, from fear and anxiety to hope and determination. Talking to a counselor or joining a support group can help. You may also find comfort in speaking with other patients undergoing similar treatments. Emotional openness can significantly impact how connected you feel to yourself and others.
Embrace Physical Changes with Compassion
Fatigue, skin reactions, and other side effects from immunotherapy may affect how you see yourself. Try not to judge these changes harshly. Instead, acknowledge them as signs that your body is actively working to heal. Wear comfortable clothing that makes you feel confident, and consider skincare routines that help manage side effects while giving you a sense of self-care.
Nourish Your Body and Mind
Eating well-balanced meals, staying hydrated, and getting as much rest as you need are essential. Even if your appetite changes or food tastes different, small, nutritious meals can still support your overall health. Mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or journaling can also help calm your thoughts and reconnect you with your inner self.
Get Informed
Understanding your treatment can empower you and reduce anxiety. Ask your care team about your immunotherapy plan and how it works. If you’re exploring options like tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, learning about different approaches can help you make informed decisions. For example, some patients with advanced skin cancer are looking into metastatic melanoma treatments like TIL therapy, which uses your own immune cells to target tumors more effectively.
Set Boundaries and Accept Help
You don’t have to do everything yourself. Let loved ones know how they can support you, whether that means running errands, sitting with you during treatment, or simply giving you space when needed. Saying “no” to activities that drain your energy is okay, and accepting help doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise.
Celebrate Small Wins
On difficult days, even small accomplishments are victories. Maybe you took a shower, made your bed, or spent five minutes outdoors. Acknowledging these moments reinforces your resilience and helps you maintain a connection with who you are beyond the illness.
