Don't be alarmed. Both of these reactions are normal as you try to readjust your life and cope with a serious illness such as advanced cancer. This brief will respond to some common questions asked by families facing cancer and describe how spirituality can be a support in coping. We hope that this information will encourage you to discuss your spiritual concerns with loved ones, members of your health care team, and clergy. Each of us has spiritual needs for a sense of meaning and purpose in life.
Spirituality refers to each individual's beliefs about, and experience of, the meaning of life.
It also refers to our need for a sense of connection to the deepest meaning of life, whether we call that God, truth or some other term. Everyone has a spiritual dimension, whether or not we attend organized services. Religions are best thought of as traditions of spirituality developed over thousands of years. For some people, these traditions help to develop their sense of meaning and purpose in life. Still others draw their spiritual beliefs from philosophy, poetry, and life experiences.