Coping with Glioma: Managing the Emotional and Psychological Impact

“It’s very individual, related to a person’s personality, their situation, what’s happening in their life, how they react,” Dr. Howard Colman, a neuro-oncologist at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah, tells SurvivorNet. “And so the appropriate responses and management has to be very individualized to that patient.”

The Emotional Impact of a Glioma Diagnosis

After receiving a glioma diagnosis, it’s common to experience a flood of emotions — shock, disbelief, fear, sadness, or even frustration. You may feel a sense of loss or worry about how the condition will affect your daily life. At the same time, your loved ones may also be struggling as they take on new caregiving roles and provide emotional support.

“Even the lower grade tumors where the treatment is just surgery and observation, it obviously creates a lot pf psychological stress related to the diagnosis and the process of getting the final answer of what it is,” Dr. Colman explains.

Feelings of depression and anxiety are particularly common. Many patients grieve changes to their independence, cognitive abilities, or physical function — but it’s important to recognize that there are support tools available.

Finding the Right Support

“In specialty brain tumor clinics, we generally have social workers, neuropsychologists, case managers, other people who are specialized in dealing with these particular issues — not just cancer patients in general, but with brain tumor patients specifically. And there are very unique challenges for brain tumor patients,” Dr. Colman explains.

The following professionals can help patients find the support they need during the cancer journey:

• The Medical Team (Neurologists & Oncologists): They can provide information about your condition, treatment options, and possible side effects, as well as refer you to specialists for additional support.
• Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors can offer therapy and, if needed, medication to help manage depression, anxiety, or stress.
• Social Workers & Patient Navigators: These professionals can help with financial assistance, accessing resources, and coordinating your care.
• Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand your experience can offer comfort, encouragement, and valuable coping strategies.
• Friends & Family: Your loved ones can provide emotional and practical support, helping with daily tasks and offering a listening ear when needed.

Understanding Neurological Changes

Gliomas and their treatments — including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy — may cause neurological, cognitive, and behavioral changes. Being prepared for these potential effects can help you take proactive steps to manage them.

Possible changes include:

• Cognitive Challenges: Some people experience difficulty with memory, concentration, or processing information, which may require adjustments in daily activities.
• Behavioral & Personality Changes: You may notice shifts in mood, irritability, or impulsivity, which can be difficult for both you and your loved ones.
• Motor & Sensory Impairments: Depending on the tumor’s location, you may experience weakness, balance issues, or difficulty walking.
• Speech & Language Difficulties: Some individuals have trouble finding words, speaking clearly, or understanding language.
• Seizures: Gliomas can sometimes cause seizures, which may require medication for management.

Managing and Treating Neurological Changes

While these changes can be challenging, there are many strategies to help you manage them effectively, including:

• Rehabilitation Therapy: Physical therapy can help with mobility, occupational therapy can assist with daily tasks, and speech therapy can address communication difficulties.
• Cognitive Rehabilitation: A neuropsychologist or cognitive therapist can help improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
• Medications: Certain medications can help with mood changes, seizures, or other neurological symptoms.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest can support brain health and emotional well-being.
• Psychological Support: Therapy, counseling, and support groups can help you and your caregivers cope emotionally.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Are there local resources I can turn to for emotional support?
• Are there any support groups you recommend?
• Is it likely that I will experience neurological side effects?
• Is there anything I can do to prevent or address these side effects early on?

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