HEALTHY LIFESTYLE · SEPTEMBER 2018
CANCER IN THE WORKPLACE :
Tips to Support Co- Workers with Cancer
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cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering event for patients and their families , but it also often puts a very personal matter front and center in a professional setting – the workplace . Cancer treatment advancements and access to high quality care in local communities means that some patients can continue to work during treatment . Others may need a modified schedule or need to take a break from work completely .
Conscientious , caring co-workers can help , but knowing what to say and do can be tricky . Effective support in the workplace can improve a patient ’ s cancer experience and outlook .
What to Expect Cancer patients often experience emotional and physical changes – these commonly include increased anxiety , fear , depression , and fatigue . Supervisors and co-workers should expect these changes and make arrangements to support the patient and each other during the treatment process .
Remember that just as each member of your work team has unique skills and personalities , your cancer patient colleagues will have different reactions and needs . Learn and respect your colleague ’ s wishes related to privacy , communication , and support .
What to Say ( and Not Say ) It ’ s always a challenge to know what to say to someone going through a difficult situation . The standard “ Let me know if I can do anything ” might be heartfelt , but it places the onus on the patient to follow up . Instead , it ’ s usually more helpful to offer specific support to your colleague . You might offer to update the co-worker on office happenings , assist on a special work project , take over a routine task , or even research resources to assist the patient . During brief conversations , focus on topics the patient enjoys discussing . Discussing work activities or other normal issues helps ensure that cancer isn ’ t the main topic of every discussion .
There are also some things co-workers should avoid telling a cancer patient : 22
Don ’ t offer unsolicited advice . It is best to simply respect the patient and their choices .
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Don ’ t tell the patient about other people you know who were affected by cancer , especially if the outcome was negative .
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Don ’ t say “ I know how you feel ” unless you specifically had the same cancer treatment . It ’ s better to listen to the patient .
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Don ’ t tell the patient to “ cheer up ” or to “ stay positive .” It might come across as insensitive or insulting . It could also add more pressure to an already stressed patient .
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Don ’ t engage in long phone calls or conversations . Cancer patients usually need rest , but the patient might be too polite to say so .
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How to Help Providing consistent , ongoing , and practical support to co-workers can be an important source of encouragement to a colleague throughout cancer treatment . If a patient is open to sharing their cancer journey , following are a few practical tips to show you care : 33
Send notes . Short , personalized cards reminding patients that they are missed and that “ work isn ’ t the same without them ” can lift spirits far more than an expensive gift .
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Prepare gift baskets . A customized collection of work-related trinkets or comforting items will help the patient stay connected to the office .
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Deliver food . If you know the patient ’ s favorite food , offer to bring it over during lunch or dinner at a time convenient to the patient .
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Make time . Brief visits ( always call or text ahead of time ), sharing music , or watching a favorite TV show with the patient demonstrates genuine concern .
Returning to “ normal ” for your cancer patient colleagues likely includes resuming their pre-cancer work routine . But during treatment , adjusting work responsibilities and encouraging patients through appropriate words and actions , can have a positive impact on your colleague ’ s cancer experience and recovery .
JOSEPH P . LITAM , M . D .
Joseph P . Litam , M . D ., is a medical oncologist at Texas Oncology — McAllen , 1901 South 2nd Street in McAllen , Texas .
To learn more about exciting advancements in cancer treatment , visit www . TexasOncology . com or call 1-888-864-I CAN ( 4226 ).