A brain tumor diagnosis is more than just a medical challenge — it’s an emotional and mental one too. It can change how you think, feel, and interact with the world around you. And while your medical team is focused on treating the tumor, it’s just as important to care for yourself — especially your mental health.
During a recent ABTA National Conference, Dr. Namish Mohile, a neuro-oncologist at the University of Rochester, shared practical strategies that brain tumor patients can use to stay connected to what matters most and protect their mental well-being along the way.
Here are some tips:
1. Start by Acknowledging the Impact
Brain tumors — and the treatments that follow — affect more than just your body. They can change your:
- Ability to think clearly (also called brain fog)
- Emotions and mood
- Energy levels (both mental and physical)
- Speech or language skills
- Ability to move, work, or connect with others
“Talk to your loved ones and your care team about what’s changed,” said Dr. Mohile. “Sometimes the people around you notice things you don’t — and it helps to name what you’re going through.”
By identifying what’s harder for you now — and what still matters to you — you can begin to build a plan for how to live fully within your new normal.
2. Ask Your Doctor These 3 Questions:
Dr. Mohile recommends asking your care team three key questions:
- What can I expect to improve with time or treatment?
- What might stay the same — and what will need adapting?
- What might get worse — and how can I prepare?
This helps set realistic expectations while also opening the door for helpful interventions like:
- Physical therapy (to improve strength and balance)
- Speech therapy (to help with language and communication)
- Medication adjustments (to reduce side effects)
- Mental health support (to ease depression or anxiety)
3. Understand the Two Types of Fatigue
Many brain tumor patients report feeling tired all the time. But did you know there are two types of fatigue?
- Physical fatigue: Your body feels heavy, weak, or slow.
- Mental fatigue: Your brain feels cloudy, overwhelmed, or shut down.
Both are real. Both are frustrating. And both deserve attention.
Some strategies that can help:
- Light movement or gentle exercise
- Practicing mindfulness or yoga
- Prioritizing sleep and rest
- Creating a daily routine with time for both activity and breaks
- Talking to your doctor about fatigue-reducing medications
4. Try “Microactions” to Build Motivation
When life feels overwhelming, it’s hard to take big steps. That’s where microactions come in — small, simple steps that help you move forward without burning out.
💡 Example: Instead of saying “I need to walk two miles today,” try “I’ll walk to the mailbox.” Then tomorrow, maybe it’s the end of the block.
These baby steps build confidence, create momentum, and help you reconnect with what brings you joy.
5. Let Your Values Guide You
You are more than your diagnosis. Your values — the things that matter most to you — are still there, even if your life looks different now.
Dr. Mohile recommends trying a “Values Sort” exercise (you can find printable versions online). The idea is to narrow down a list of values — like family, independence, creativity, or faith — until you identify the top 3–5 that matter most to you.
Then, ask yourself:
- How can I stay connected to these values in my daily life?
- Can my medical care support these values?
- Who can I share them with — and how can my care team help?
When your care decisions are guided by your values, it’s easier to feel like you are still in control.
Final Thoughts: Your Mental Health Deserves Attention
Living with a brain tumor can be hard. But caring for your mental health isn’t about pretending everything is okay — it’s about building the tools to keep going, even when it’s not.
You don’t have to do it alone.
We have free resources, support groups, and expert webinars to help support you. Wherever you are on your journey, we’re here to help you live fully — and live well.
📘 Join the ABTA online Connections Community
🔗 Find a support group or webinar at abta.org/brain-tumor-resources
