Distraction and Occupying Your Mind

Having symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and cancer treatment can often make you feel down, especially if you need to rest without anything to do or anybody to talk to. You may end up focusing on the symptoms you are experiencing if you have nothing else to distract you, and this may make things worse. Occupying your mind and being entertained, even for short periods of time, can help to distract you and help you to cope with symptoms such as nausea and pain. It may also help prevent you from taking daytime naps which can help if you are having trouble sleeping at night.

Try to break up your day by doing lots of different activities. You may find it beneficial to structure your day and build up a routine.

Try activities such as:

Watching TV.

Reading a book or magazine.

Doing crosswords, word searches, Sudoku or other puzzles.

Playing board games or computer games.

Listening to the radio or some music.

Chatting to a friend or relative on the phone.

Inviting family or friends to visit you so you have something to look forward to. Short, regular visits may be better than longer ones. They are less tiring and help to break up the day.

Plan other enjoyable activities so you have goals or treats to look forward to.