Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) psychological impact

We experience stress when we feel that we are under too much pressure or have too many demands being made of us, and that we don’t have the resources to cope. Understandably, people can feel like this at times when they are ill and trying to cope with the demands of treatment as well as other concerns such as financial, employment or relationship issues.

The emotional symptoms of stress can include low mood, anxiety and irritability.

Coping strategies:

• Relaxation techniques (controlled breathing, progressive muscle relaxation) and/or exercise to manage the physical, adrenaline-fuelled aspects of stress (which are the same as those in anxiety and anger).
• Notice the negative thoughts which contribute to anxiety, tension and irritability, producing adrenaline as they arise: “this is unbearable”, “I can’t cope”.
• Challenge negative thoughts by writing them down and coming up with more helpful ones e.g. “although this is difficult, I can cope (especially with support)”.
• Plan, prioritise, break things down into manageable ‘chunks’ (writing this out is helpful).
• Pace yourself, rather than doing too much or trying to cope with everything at once.
• Take breaks and ‘time out’.
• Ask for help and support.
• Maintain a ‘here and now’ focus on things that are enjoyable and meaningful to you.

There are helpful tools and personal stories about coping with blood cancer in our Living well with blood cancer pages.