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Relationships

As a young adult with a brain tumour diagnosis, you may find it difficult to maintain interpersonal relationships or form new ones. As a young adult with a brain tumour diagnosis, you may find it difficult to maintain interpersonal relationships or form new ones. Young Adults impacted by a brain tumour diagnosis face unique challenges and can feel an increase in symptoms relating to depression, anxiety, psychological stress and social isolation. That is why Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada offers unique programming such as young adult events and retreats, to create opportunities to meet others who share similar experiences, as well as form meaningful connections that promote the development of new friendships, while also improving self-esteem, self-efficacy, and psychological well-being.

As you cope with the new challenges that inherently come with a brain tumour diagnosis, it is important to communicate and address issues that arise in your interpersonal relationships and take the necessary time to understand what is happening and promote healing.

Please see the tips below to help in navigating these conversations or reach out to your health care professional for additional support.

  • Have open and honest discussions. This may already be a strength for you, but for many, it can take some practice.
  • Role changes are common, and you may find it helpful to plan how you will handle certain tasks and daily activities to decrease stress and encourage open communication in the relationship.
  • Try to use the same coping strategies that worked well for the relationship in the past or look for new resources and supports.
  • Don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it. Talking to a health care professional or joining a support group can be enlightening and encouraging. Seeking help together or individually can help you to solve problems and discuss your options. Click HERE to register for one of our support groups.

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