The lymphoma experience can be a difficult, life-changing experience for you and your loved ones. If you have gone through treatment, you may still feel tired and weak or experience long-term side effects that impact your ability to return to normal. Keep in mind that your recovery will take time and it may even last longer than your treatment time. If you are in watch and wait, you may also need time to mentally and emotionally adjust to living with what feels like uncertainty. Your loved ones may not understand that it takes time for you to come to terms with what you have been through or what you are going through. They may be frustrated that you have not returned to your regular daily routines. In addition, they may feel like their help or support is no longer needed. This may cause you to feel isolated from or abandoned by your loved ones because you are not getting the support that you still need.
On the other hand, the opposite may also occur. You may feel that your loved ones are overly concerned about you or overly protective of you. They may not think that you are ready to return to your daily routines such as doing household chores or going back to work. You may find yourself feeling frustrated because it is important for your recovery to gradually return to your regular routine.
Whatever your specific situation, it is important to understand that some family members will have trouble adjusting to the changes you are going through. Here are some ideas that have helped others with similar concerns:
- Give yourself and your family time.
- Tell your family what you are or are not able to do as you heal. Help them to understand what to expect during this transition phase.
- Be open and honest with one another to help ensure that each person’s needs are met.
Different issues may arise as you relate with different members of your family.
