Being diagnosed with a terminal illness can raise numerous questions and concerns for you and your loved ones. There is no right or wrong way to feel about such news, nor is there a right way to handle it. You may want to consider enlisting hospice care for help with the subsequent stages you will go through. Meanwhile, the following advice might help you overcome some of the challenges you can face. 

What to Do When Diagnosed With a Terminal Illness 

1. Research 

Researching your illness and various treatment options can empower you to make the best decisions for you and your loved ones. Ask your doctor about what changes you can expect as your disease progresses. Also, consider reading books or articles about your specific illness and how to cope with such a diagnosis. Learn about the late-stage symptoms you might experience and methods that can make them more manageable. 

2. Find Someone to Talk To 

Receiving a terminal illness diagnosis can be overwhelming. Talking with someone can ease the burden and help you work through your emotions and navigate challenges. Besides your doctor or nurse, you may wish to confide in those you are closest to, such as family and dear friends. Consider seeing a counselor or joining a support group with peers in similar situations. 

3. Put Your Affairs in Order 

Though this time is challenging, some practical tasks must be tended to. Thankfully, you can reach out to lawyers and accountants who can help you plan your estate, write a will, and resolve outstanding debts. Your doctor or a hospice care provider can put you in touch with a caseworker who can arrange for hospice care and determine if you or your survivors are eligible for other benefits. 

4. Reevaluate Your Priorities 

Sometimes life has a way of pushing our priorities further down the to-do list. If this has happened to you, use a little time to reevaluate what's most important to you and find a way to bring those factors back to the top of your list. Spending time with loved ones is usually the most important, especially after receiving a terminal illness diagnosis. This might also be an ideal time to check activities off your “bucket list” as well, whether that’s taking a family vacation to the tropics, seeing your favorite recording artist perform, or riding in a hot air balloon. When determining your priorities, consider what makes you feel the happiest and most fulfilled.

If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and need palliative care, turn to Deer Valley Hospice Care. Located in Berkeley, MO, and serving the greater St. Louis area, this long-term and hospice care provider offers in-home care services to help patients live peacefully and comfortably. Visit this compassionate organization online to learn more about their services, or call (314) 396-2211 with questions for a team member.