Being diagnosed with multiple myeloma can be an overwhelming experience. It’s very normal to be flooded with emotions ranging from sadness, fear, anger, and anxiety. As you mentally and emotionally process your diagnosis, the thought of sharing the diagnoses with others can seem like a little too much.
Although it may feel implausible, research has shown that sharing your diagnosis has many benefits and most people feel better after doing it. Sharing your diagnosis also opens the door for social support, which will be needed as you navigate the mental, physical and emotional demands of treating your myeloma.
Breaking the news of your diagnosis is not a simple conversation. It can be awkward to start, and then get messy and emotional. But it’s a conversation most people have with at least their close family and friends.
If you decide to share your myeloma diagnosis, here are a few things to consider:
Remember that sharing your diagnosis can be as hard as hearing the diagnosis yourself, but there are often silver linings. Nobody would opt to go through cancer, but through the heartache and the challenges, there are often rays of light, and sometimes those rays of light take the form of new or strengthened relationships.
about the author
Lora Jensen
Lora is an Editorial Contributor for the Myeloma Crowd and proud mom of 6 kids and 5 grandkids. In addition to supporting myeloma patients, she loves creating fun parties and activities for her grandkids to enjoy.
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