In the face of cancer patients at home, this news is a major psychological shock to both adults and children. Children may feel confused and afraid because of their lack of awareness of cancer. They may not know how to deal with these emotions. They may even misunderstand that cancer is some kind of punishment from their family or their own mistakes. Therefore, communicating cancer-related information and coping strategies to children is a task that family members must pay attention to when dealing with cancer.
First, parents should explain the concept of cancer in terms that children can understand. Cancer can be described as the disorderly growth of some “disobedient cells” in the body, which affect the normal functioning of the body. At the same time, it should be emphasized to children that cancer is not caused by emotion or behavior, it is a disease and has nothing to do with personal conduct. Parents can use tools such as children’s books, videos or interactive games to help children understand better.
Secondly, parents need to explain the treatment of cancer to their children. Treatment for cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc. Parents should explain the purpose of these treatments in a way that the child can understand. Chemotherapy, for example, can be likened to “cleaning up the inside of the body” and helping to eliminate disobedient cells. At the same time, parents should tell children that treatment may bring some side effects, such as fatigue, hair loss, etc., but these are temporary, and doctors will try to help patients alleviate discomfort.
In the process of explanation, parents should encourage children to ask questions and answer them patiently. Children may ask the same questions over and over again, and parents need to be patient and understand that this is a way for children to process information and emotions. Parents should also pay attention to observing children’s behavior and emotional changes, find out their possible psychological problems in time, and give appropriate guidance and support.
It is also important to
help children express their feelings. Children may not know how to express their worries and fears in words. Parents can encourage them to express their inner feelings by drawing, writing diaries, telling stories or playing role-playing games. Through these activities, children can better understand their emotions and learn how to deal with them.
In addition, parents should provide a safe environment for children to feel loved and supported. Parents can work out a daily activity plan with their children to maintain the regularity of life, so that children feel that life is still orderly and predictable. At the same time, parents should encourage children to keep in touch with friends and classmates and not isolate themselves because of illness in the family. School and community support is also very important, and parents can communicate with teachers to ensure that children receive appropriate attention and support in school.
In the family, parents should face the challenges of cancer with their children. Parents can make children feel that they can contribute to the family by participating in some activities together, such as preparing gifts for patients and writing encouraging cards. This sense of participation and belonging is essential for children’s mental health.
Finally, education and communication are key to helping children understand the impact of cancer. Parents, teachers and medical professionals should work together to provide children with accurate information and appropriate psychological support. Through education, children can better understand cancer and reduce fear and misunderstanding; through communication, children can express their feelings and get emotional support.
In conclusion, when a family member has cancer, parents need to pay special attention to children’s mental health. With easy-to-understand explanations, encouragement to express feelings, a safe environment and support, and education and communication, families can face the challenges of cancer together and help children grow up healthy.
