During cancer treatment, there will likely be one or more people in your life who step into the role of caregiver. This person may be your significant other, your parents, another relative or a close friend. Your caregiver may go with you to appointments or treatment, assist with daily chores and errands, help prepare food, offer emotional support, and other tasks as needed.
Tasks that were easy for you before cancer, may not be as doable now. Or, you may not have the energy or strength to complete tasks as your body recovers.
As a young adult, the loss of independence that may come with cancer treatment can be very frustrating. You may have only recently left your family home or begun to build your own life. This sense of frustration can be especially strong if your parents become your primary caregivers.
Remember your caregiver cares about you. If you feel yourself becoming frustrated with your caregiver, try not to lash out in anger. Instead try to talk with your caregiver openly about your feelings. It can be helpful to set boundaries with your caregiver in the beginning.
Use Worksheet 4: Questions for Caregivers to Ask Their Loved Ones as a boundary-setting exercise with your caregiver whoever that person may be.