The mental health effects of mesothelioma are truly burdensome for both victims of the cancer as well as caregivers. This is due to a variety of reasons. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, with about 3,000 cases each year in the United States. This may make it hard for victims to relate to others since they may not know anyone else who has mesothelioma. Additionally, treatment can be very intense and mentally and physically exhausting. Not to mention, the financial stress it can put on the patient and the family. Additionally, the fact that mesothelioma is caused by asbestos can have negative mental health effects on those who have been diagnosed because more than likely, their employer was negligent and exposed them to asbestos. It is normal to feel resentment and sorrow over this. It is normal to want to be compensated for what you and your family are going through. It is normal to want justice.
Research
Research has shown that both mesothelioma patients as well as their caregivers suffer from anxiety, stress, and depression. It is also thought that a portion of those living with mesothelioma may experience symptoms similar to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is important that the mental health of mesothelioma patients is addressed and it can be beneficial to implement psychological counseling for both patients and caregivers.
We all want to find meaning in our lives and sometimes this is a lifelong journey. Mesothelioma victims deserve to have meaning in their lives just like all of us. Although mesothelioma has a poor prognosis, quality of life can still be enhanced through certain treatments, such as palliative care. The effects of mesothelioma on the body can be very debilitating and victims may be upset that they can’t do everyday tasks like they once could or that they require assistance. This leads to negative mental health effects.
In another study, it was found that acceptance coping strategies and positive reframing were actually higher among patients who were depressed than those who reported not to be depressed. Another coping strategy that was more common in those who reported to be depressed was humor. The effects of mesothelioma can be different for different people.
Financial Compensation
Financial compensation can be helpful in easing the monetary burden of a mesothelioma diagnosis, as treatment can be highly costly. Some mesothelioma victims may be stressed over the cost of treatment and filing a lawsuit and obtaining compensation may ease some of that stress. If you decide to pursue a case, we will do the research to get you the most compensation possible, so that instead of worrying about money, you are prioritizing your health and well-being.
Effects of Mesothelioma on Veterans
When it comes to the effects of mesothelioma on veterans specifically, there has not been extensive research done. Veterans may feel a sense of betrayal as while serving their country they were exposed to hazardous material, in many cases, without being warned of its dangers. Many mesothelioma victims in the US are Navy veterans. According to one study from the UK, both veterans and caregivers tried to just keep going despite such a devastating diagnosis. Based on this study, a lot of veterans did not want to ask for help and tried to be independent. Not asking for help when it is needed could definitely have a negative effect on outcomes. It is more than okay to ask for assistance, no one can go through a mesothelioma diagnosis alone.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you should not have to face it alone. This website is filled with information about mesothelioma, such as common sources of exposure, some of the best hospitals to treat at, and even legal information, should you wish to pursue a claim. For more information, regarding you or a family member’s diagnosis, please call us at (800) 505-6000 or fill out the form on our Homepage.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S146238892400070X
