America is stressed. In its latest survey, the American Psychological Association (APA) showed a spike in mental health diagnoses, including anxiety. If left unaddressed, the APA states these prolonged feelings of pressure can affect our emotional as well as our physical well-being, harming our immune systems and increasing our risk of severe illnesses.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis or caring for a loved one with the disease can be an overwhelming experience. The American Cancer Society states, “Feelings of anxiety, distress, depression and loneliness are common, both during and after cancer treatment.” To help alleviate the unease, CARTI encourages patients and caregivers to seek help, including at The Bridge and its new health and longevity clinic for those in recovery.
Diane Wilder, M.D., a board-certified medical oncologist, says CARTI takes a holistic approach to health. She acknowledges that educating and empowering patients to adopt new lifestyle habits takes a shift in perspective and positive, comprehensive support. That is why she recommends a slower transition for those anxious about jumping in head-first.
For example, Dr. Wilder suggests breaking workouts into “exercise snacks.” She points to multiple studies showing that one-to-five-minute bursts of elevated heart rate can be as beneficial as prolonged physical activity in improving cardiovascular health, muscular strength and cognitive processing. Instead of feeling guilty about what we can’t do or fit into our schedules, she urges her patients to embrace the small wins and celebrate their overall progress.
Kristen Krauss, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, a licensed mental health counselor with CARTI, echoes Dr. Wilder’s emphasis. Instead of aiming for big—and often short-term—changes, she believes patients and caregivers should focus on more consistent, proactive steps. She recommends practicing intentional awareness, such as meditation, yoga, journaling, and participating in activities that feed our souls. She is also quick to point out that leaning on our support networks should also be considered self-care.
In an increasingly digital world, Dr. Wilder says it’s tempting to distract ourselves from anxiety-ridden situations by logging into social media. Unfortunately, this can lead to an immersive, even brain-altering experience, with a ripple effect of adverse outcomes, including growing isolation and resulting mental health difficulties. Rather than plugging into our feeds, Dr. Wilder recommends allowing our bodies and minds to go “off duty” in silence or quiet reflection, a restorative process that can leave us feeling more grounded and at peace.
CARTI understands that life can be stressful, particularly during periods of uncertainty and heavy responsibility, such as caring for a loved one with cancer. Through The Bridge, it offers free programs and support groups to help improve quality of life. Visit CARTI.com to sign up.