your insurance about provided services.
There are many agencies that offer
services such as counseling, support
groups, and resource referrals.
In the Columbus area, call the
Mount Carmel Cancer Hope Line at
614-546-HOPE (4673) and select #2
for Support and Survivorship.
Other support resources include:
• American Cancer Society
614-228-8466
• Catholic Social Services
614-221-5891
• Netcare Access
614-276-2273
• Jewish Family Services
614-231-1890
• Lutheran Social Services
of Central Ohio
614-228-5200
Talk with your doctor, nurse, or social
worker about any concerns or questions.
• Your self-image and feeling of well-
being are an important part of your
sexuality. Take the time to pamper
yourself in ways that are relaxing
and that help you to feel good about
yourself.
If you would like to talk with someone
about these issues or other concerns,
ask your doctor or nurse. You can also
talk with a counselor, or you may fi nd a
support group to be helpful.
Distress
A diagnosis of cancer can be very
diffi cult both for patients and for their
loved ones. It may cause a great deal of
distress.
Common symptoms of distress include:
• Feelings of sadness and fear
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Panic
• Loneliness
• Struggles with spiritual beliefs
Distress can be treated and managed.
Counseling, support groups, relaxation,
and stress management are often helpful.
At times, medication may be n eeded.
Distress symptoms may become severe.
Tell your doctor or a member of your
care team if your symptoms last longer
than 2 weeks or you have problems
concentrating, sleeping, eating, or if you
are extremely tired.
Seek treatment right away if you have
thoughts of suicide. Call Netcare Access
at 614-276-2273 or dial 911.
After you are diagnosed with cancer, you
and your family members may want to
talk to a counselor. You can check with
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