One out of two cancer patients will be diagnosed with a psychiatric condition during treatment. Depression is the most common one as people literally battle for their lives. There is a way to get through the intense life-changing experience.
Pam Turner found that even in remission, it's tough to beat cancer. The side effects of high dose chemotherapy and worry don't simply disappear and that's why she's seeing a cancer counselor at Omaha's Lakeside Hospital.
"I didn't expect to have to deal with cancer for so long, I expected it would be more of a brief episode and here I am seven years later," says Turner.
Alegent Health cancer counselor Barbara Clinkenbeard's specialized training allows her to deal with clients' emotional, financial and spiritual needs at the most difficult point in their lives.
"Usually what I tell people is you're a normal person going through an abnormal experience and these are the things that are going to help you, working through it with somebody who can share the journey others have been on."
Sometimes it's tough taking that first step. Art therapy can open the lines of communication. When the patient can't find the words they can come to the art studio to paint or draw them, like in the case where the artist created a sunset.
The benefits for Turner extend to her family. Son Corey has special needs and still needs active parenting. Counseling helps Pam and her husband cope.
"How do you deal with the uncertainty of so many things and she's really helped in, it's okay, we don't know what's going to happen, but let's do this and go ahead and live our lives," says Turner.
"Barb helps me gain perspective and balance and refocus on what will I do now." Even though cancer has changed Turner, it hasn't beaten her.
Doctors, family and friends often see a need for counseling before a patient realizes it. Things to keep an eye out for include trouble sleeping, decreased interest and isolating oneself.
