Death is an inevitable truth in life, but if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, it can be hard to accept and very overwhelming thinking about all of the unfinished business you have to get done as soon as possible. While you let the truth sink in, we have listed six things you should consider if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness that would benefit you and the people you love when you pass.
1. Reflecting on Sad Emotions
The emotions of wrath, anxiety, grief, and regret are common among those whose disease has progressed to a point where treatment is highly doubtful. You may feel a loss of strength, mobility, and independence, which is perfectly natural.
Illness, treatment, and the potential loss of life might make you feel like you’re losing control of your life. It’s natural to feel sad about leaving friends and family behind. Comfort can be found in sharing one’s sentiments and worries with loved ones and medical professionals.
2. Resolving Legal, Financial, and Personal Issues
It’s awful to think about death, but it’s wise to have your affairs in order. Think about how you wish to be cared for in your final days. Tell your loved ones and your doctors what you want. It’s better to have a head start on things, even if your plans and objectives change as your circumstances and preferences evolve.
Finding and arranging crucial financial and legal documents may be integral to wrapping up your affairs. These include your will, birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, Social Security card, bank investment statements, investment reports, and passwords.
Talking to a financial consultant or social worker is a good idea if you want to get a living will, if you have a complicated financial situation, or are worried about leaving your loved ones with substantial medical costs or debts.
They can assist you in arranging your finances to reduce anxiety for you and your loved ones. Spend more time with your loved ones by preparing to resolve any outstanding legal, financial, or business matters.
It is crucial to have a set of advance instructions in place, or at least keep them up to date. Make sure your loved ones fully understand your preferences by drafting these documents before any eventual need.
One can make a health care directive or a living will.
• Long-term Healthcare Proxy: If you cannot make your own medical decisions, this person will step in on your behalf. It’s crucial to choose someone you can trust and then let them know they have been entrusted with this duty.
• Living Will: An advance directive specifies in writing the kind of care you would and would not like to receive in the latter stages of your life.
Also, some people find it comforting to organize at least some of the details of their burial or memorial service. Make a plan with your loved ones or express your wishes with them in writing.
3. Opt for Therapy
Look for professional help from a therapist specializing in death, dying, and grief. The person receiving the diagnosis and their loved ones can benefit significantly from this. Use a therapist directory to discover a qualified mental health practitioner near you by specifying your needs in terms of geography, budget, and desired level of experience.
4. Finishing Incomplete Goals
It’s natural to have final goals in mind, as your time is limited. Allotting time for these activities can help you feel more fulfilled. Some examples of such goals include meeting up with long-lost family members or going on the trip of a lifetime.
On the other hand, you might prefer the more modest but no less significant pleasures. Maybe you want to spend some quality time with the people who matter to you, or you want to reread a book you really enjoyed, or finally take up your hobby of writing a journal.
Finding resolution in pivotal relationships is another means of achieving closure. In doing so, you may need to make amends, say farewell to loved ones, and express gratitude for your time together. If you cannot meet in person, communicate through other means, such as writing, calling, or passing along a message.
It’s important to remember that not everyone will react the way you hope they will, no matter how hard you try. It’s possible that some folks won’t come to see you because they feel awkward or afraid of what they might say if they did. Your best efforts to mend a broken relationship should bring you some solace.
5. Analyzing your Past Experiences
Think about pausing to appreciate and honor your existence. The people you’ve loved, the experiences you’ve had, and the goals you’ve achieved are examples of such things. Share stories of the good times you’ve shared with loved ones.
The individuals you leave behind can treasure the stories you tell them. It can be helpful to write down or record your reflections on life or to have someone take notes. If you’re sad about leaving loved ones, talking about what you hope for them could help. It’s a great way to make them feel you care. To help your young children remember how much you care, you can leave behind photos and recordings.
6. Faith and the Spiritual Life
Some people’s identities are inextricably intertwined with their religious affiliations. And having the faith community and clergy there for you is a huge comfort when time is running out.
Connecting with nature or other people may provide spiritual solace for some. Seek out spiritual experiences that give you solace, meaning, and closure as you approach death. A higher sense of well-being has been linked to patients’ perceptions of spiritual assistance. The spiritual needs of patients and their loved ones are essential, and they should not hesitate to ask for aid from the medical staff.
Conclusion
You have a lot on your plate if you are diagnosed with a terminal disease. Allowing time for emotions to set in, talking to close ones about the matter, resolving legal and financial issues, trying to check off your bucket list, the list goes on.
Here are six things you need to consider if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, with which we hope things will be a bit easier for you to sort out. Seek therapy if you find it harder to cope with the situation, and never lose hope!
