Receiving a terminal diagnosis is incredibly challenging, just as it is to die peacefully and with dignity. However, you can make a series of decisions that will help you feel dignified. It is important to process your emotions and seek support from loved ones. This will make it easier for you to come to terms with what you are facing.

Assessing Treatment Options

Step 1. Understand Your Diagnosis.

Step 1

Understand your diagnosis. If you've received a terminal diagnosis, you may be overwhelmed with emotions. This is normal. Give yourself time to process what is happening. When you feel ready, ask your doctor to discuss your diagnosis with you again. Ask plenty of questions about both treatment and prognosis.

  • Ask a relative or close friend to accompany you to the doctor. Many people find it difficult to discuss health matters. Your friend can act as your advocate, asking questions and taking notes on the doctor's answers.

Step 2. Know Your Legal Rights.

Step 2

Know your legal rights. In some countries, terminally ill patients have the option to consent to voluntary euthanasia; however, this practice is banned in Russia. Consider traveling to a country where euthanasia is permitted.

  • Discuss this option with your family. Many people are interested in euthanasia because it allows them to decide when to die.

Step 3. Consider Hospice Care.

Step 3

Consider hospice care. If you have a terminal diagnosis, hospice may be a suitable option for you. Hospice is a place where a person is helped to live their final days rather than treated. Often, hospice provides the kind of care that cannot be given at home. For many people, hospice becomes a comfortable place where it is easier to come to terms with death. Hospice staff are available to help around the clock.

  • You can also hire a caregiver. Research the options available in your city. Gather as much information as possible to decide which care option suits you best.

Step 4. Communicate Your Wishes to Loved Ones.

Step 4

Communicate your wishes to loved ones. You should talk to your family about what will happen after your death, even if it is difficult to discuss. You will need to explain what you want. If you prefer to have a caregiver, make that clear. As your illness progresses, it may become harder to communicate your wishes. Try to have these conversations as soon as possible, even if you are struggling with your emotions.

  • You will need to appoint someone as your executor. This person will be able to make decisions for you if you become incapacitated.
  • Find a lawyer who can help you appoint an executor.

Step 5. Learn to Cope with Physical Limitations.

Step 5

Learn to cope with physical limitations. Often, with a terminal diagnosis, a person's health deteriorates rapidly. You may quickly lose the ability to do things you are accustomed to. It can be difficult to accept that you will need to rely on others for help. Many people find it challenging to maintain their dignity during this time.

  • Take the choice of caregiver seriously. If you decide to hire a caregiver, during the interview, ask how they typically provide assistance. You need to find a caring person who will treat you with respect.
  • If you choose to have a friend or relative care for you, talk to them while you are still able. Explain that you want to maintain your dignity and would like to be treated as an adult, not like a child. Ask them to research caregiving information. Your doctor can suggest where to find this information.

Step 6. Be Prepared to Lose Some Independence.

Step 6

Be prepared to lose some independence. You may find yourself losing independence. For example, due to illness or medication, you may be unable to drive. This is difficult, especially as you are already coping with new emotions.

  • Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of the good things in your life. If you write down a couple of things each day that you are thankful for, you will feel better. For instance, you might be grateful for a warm cup of tea, a conversation with a loved one, or the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
  • Join a support group to remind yourself that you are not alone. Talk to others about losing independence and learn how others cope in similar situations.

Coping with Psychological Challenges

Step 1. Allow Yourself to Grieve.

Step 1

Allow yourself to grieve. A terminal diagnosis brings a flood of emotions. It will likely be difficult to comprehend that your time is limited. Don't judge yourself and give yourself time to process your feelings. Remember that everyone feels differently and processes news in their own way. This is normal.

  • In the first few days, your emotions may fluctuate constantly. You may feel anger, denial, fear, and sadness. Accept your feelings and remember that all of them are understandable.

Step 2. Know What to Do If You Feel Anxious.

Step 2

Know what to do if you feel anxious. You will likely be very concerned about death and what will happen when you are gone. Research shows that the most effective way to manage anxiety is to focus on what you can control. Once the initial shock wears off, start thinking about your care options and planning for the future.

  • For example, you can start exploring treatment and care options. Consider several alternatives and choose the one that seems most suitable for you.

Step 3. Find Joy in Life.

Step 3

Find ways to enjoy life. You may have days, weeks, months, or years left to live. It can be challenging to think about anything else when faced with a terminal diagnosis. However, it is important to try to live the remainder of your life with joy. Engage in activities you still can do and spend more time with loved ones.

  • If you enjoy being outdoors, try to get outside every day. Ask friends or family to go for walks with you when you feel up to it.
  • There may be moments when you feel like a healthy person despite your diagnosis. In those cases, do what you have always wanted to try. If you have always wanted to travel abroad, make plans, but first get your doctor's approval.

Step 4. Seek Support from Loved Ones.

Step 4

Seek support from loved ones. Coping with a terminal illness is tough. It is important to surround yourself with loved ones and allow them to help you. This may be difficult; you may not want others to see you unwell or have to assist you. All these feelings are understandable, but both you and your loved ones will be better off if you overcome the desire to isolate yourself.

  • There are support groups for terminally ill individuals. Ask your doctor for recommendations on such groups. You may find comfort in being around people who are going through similar situations.

Getting Your Affairs in Order

Step 1. Make a Will.

Step 1

Make a will. A will can be simple and short, but it is an important document. If you do not have a will, create one. You can do this on your own or with the help of a lawyer. Specify your beneficiaries for your property and funds. If you have children, indicate who will be their guardian.

  • Appoint an executor. This person will oversee the execution of your will.
  • If you have a terminal illness, consider creating a living will. This will allow the person you choose to make decisions on your behalf when you become incapacitated.

Step 2. Consider Funeral Arrangements.

Step 2

Consider funeral arrangements. Planning can help you manage stress. Some people enjoy planning their own funerals. You can create a plan that is as detailed as you wish.

  • If you want your farewell to be religious or non-religious, specify this in your directives. You can also choose the music.
  • Share your wishes with a close person. You may plan many details on your own, but you will need help from someone to oversee everything.

Step 3. Say Your Goodbyes.

Step 3

Say your goodbyes. You may find comfort in saying goodbye to all your loved ones in advance. You will likely want to do this, and it is a very personal process. Remember: there are no rules in this situation. You will be able to die with dignity if you do what you feel is right.

  • You can talk to people. If you fear you might struggle with emotions, consider preparing what you want to say in advance. Remember that emotions and tears are normal.
  • Some people prefer to write farewell letters. These may be intended for reading before or after your death.