Janice Skoblenick

Unexpected Coping Hacks that Worked for Me During Recovery   

In 2020 I was diagnosed with a blood cancer. Upon learning about having cancer, I really struggled with my mental health. Over the course of the last 5 years, I have found some exceptional ways to navigate some of the feelings of anxiety, isolation, depression, and the “why me”. I hope some of these may help you as you work through the challenges of your new or chronic diagnosis. 

 The first one is obvious, and I’m sure many of us with mental health struggles, use this as a first coping mechanism. Friends. True friends can become such a huge support, an ear and a soft place to land when you feeling like your world is collapsing. True friends are there for you during the good, the bad and the worst. 

The second one was a complete surprise to me. I would have never expected to become a public speaker, or a peer support, but here I am. Shortly after my diagnosis, I found out that most of the information available about my specific cancer diagnosis, included images of older people that looked very different from me. This obviously led to further feelings of isolation. 

 Because of this, I started reaching out to different organizations and advocating for change so that no one else had to feel as isolated as me. This then led to the organizations, such as LLSC, asking me to come and speak about my cancer to their staff. The first event was the most challenging, as I have never loved speaking in front of large crowds. However, as I started participating in more and more events, it became easier. I could also see the changes I was pushing for, were starting to have an impact. This alone, allowed me to feel less hopeless and anxious. 

With regards to becoming a First Connection peer support, I was connected with others with a similar diagnosis. Speaking with others, and hearing their stories, made us both realize we were not alone. It also helped me navigate the “why me” feelings. This was probably one of the biggest hacks I found that has helped me during my recovery.   

The final coping hack I found that worked for me, was just getting involved in cancer support group. There are many around, such as some through LLSC, Lymphoma Canada, Young Adult Cancer Canada, or the Bloom Club. Connecting with other young people through some of the organizations listed above has reiterated to me that we are not alone in this cancer journey and that we are stronger together.