Another way to seek help is through individual counseling, group sessions, and pharmaceutical intervention.
Individual counseling
Individual counseling can be a safe place to speak openly about how you
are coping (or having trouble coping) with caregiving. It may be the only
time you can be completely focused on your own feelings, which can be very
valuable in helping you to continue caregiving. While finding a therapist
who is familiar with the issues surrounding cancer in young adults, caregiving
and its effects on marriages and families is ideal, the most important thing
is that you find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and feel you
can work with.
Group sessions
Group sessions can also be helpful, if you can find one where you feel comfortable.
(This is often tough for young cancer spouses due to our unique combination
of issues, including age, children, careers, etc.)
Pharmaceutical intervention
If you choose to explore your options regarding anti-anxiety medications,
antidepressants and other prescription drugs, be sure to consult with a
psychiatrist or healthcare provider. Often these medications work best when
paired with "talk therapy," so you should also try to do individual therapy
along with them. Remember that psychoactive drugs are not "happy pills,"
nor will they erase the stress associated with cancer caregiving. However,
for some, these medications can help to take the edge off and allow you
to function better day to day.