Just the word "cancer" can shake even the strongest patient beliefs in themselves and healthcare, but there is hope and ways to deal with it.

The mention that something in our bodies is cancerous is a diagnosis that can shake even the strongest individuals, but it is not as it had been in years gone by; there is hope and many treatment modalities and self-care.

One of the world's most famous and wealthy individuals, the Princess of Wales, has acknowledged that she has cancer, but she has not been specific about the type. The princess has stated she is currently receiving chemotherapy, and she and the Prince of Wales are helping their young children understand what is happening and reassuring them that their mother will be OK.

This is an important time in the lives of these children, and everyone, including their extended family and the worldwide media, must assist in this effort. To do less would be unthinkable.

Of course, the royal family has been doubly stricken because both the Princess of Wales and King Charles III recently received cancer diagnoses. So, the family has an incredible burden and stress despite everything they possess in terms of royal titles and vast wealth. Cancer recognizes no social status and strikes at will, regardless of who the person may be.

What do experts in mental health recommend to anyone and any family that has to contend with a cancer diagnosis? First, of course, all available treatment modalities must be considered, including which might be most suitable. Once that is determined, the practice of caring for the family member and the cancer patient themselves begins in earnest.

The experts offer the following advice:

Talk to someone you know who has had cancer. Or join a support group to meet other people who have survived cancer. You can contact the American Cancer Society group in your area. Cancer survivors can also talk to each other on social media. The Cancer Survivors Network from the American Cancer Society is a good place to start.

People who have not been through cancer may not fully understand how you feel. It might help to talk to people who have been through the same thing. Other people who have survived cancer can share their stories. They can explain what will happen during treatment.

Some old stereotypes about cancer are still around. Your friends might wonder if they can get cancer from you. Some people at work might not believe you are healthy enough to do your job. Some people might avoid you because they do not want to say something upsetting. Many people will be worried and have questions, but they may hesitate to ask anything.

Figure out how you will interact with other people. Most of the time, people will do what you do. Tell your friends that having cancer should not make them afraid to be with you. Ironically, a cancer patient has to calm other people.

I recall a woman in an office where I once had a summer job. At first, we all verbally stumbled, but she made it possible for us to be comfortable enough to talk to her and not concentrate on her cancer. She had cancer that necessitated an upsetting amputation, and it was difficult, but she persevered and came to her job every day that she was able. I admired her courage.

Deal with the truth about the illness. Ask tough questions about how bad the conditions are and the pros and cons of the different treatment choices. Do your research on these topics. This way of coping helps.

Keep your hope and positivity up as much as you can. Patients who are hopeful and optimistic about what will happen in the future handle their disease better than negative patients. Some studies have also found a link between optimism and better health results. Remember, your immune system responds best when you control the stress and anxiety you are experiencing. In this way, you contribute to your medical treatments.

Express your feelings. Research has shown that people who talk about their feelings and worries have a better time with their mental health than people who try to hide their feelings or say nothing about them. Expressing your emotions is helpful because it lets you get better emotional support. Knowing that others understand and accept your feelings can be helpful, but you must discuss them.

Take part actively in your treatment. Active patients think they can make a change and act on this belief. They feel less helpless and exposed. Studies have shown that self-efficacy, also known as believing in your ability to make things happen, positively affects your emotions.

Experience enlightenment. Being told you have cancer and going through treatment is a terrible experience, but it can also be a chance to make things better. People who are sick take a step back and think about who they are and how they have been living. They think about their values and goals and often decide that their lifestyles and relationships must change (and may have been waiting for a while).

Consider your approach to spirituality. Many people in our society have strong spiritual beliefs. These beliefs can help people who are living with cancer. Patients who do this gain: they feel more at peace, stronger, and better able to deal with things; they also have better psychological change and quality of life.

Medical research is uncovering more effective treatments for all diseases, including cancer, and today, there is more reason to maintain hope for a cure and recovery than ever before.