If you’ve already gone through a few rounds of chemo, chances are you’ve felt those ‘cancer blues’. You feel tired, drained, and your world seems to shrink now that you have to slow down. Sometimes the fear creeps in, and all you want is a good cry. You’re not alone. Everyone counting down to that last chemo session hits a low every now and then. Don’t fight it—let it happen—and then lift yourself up again with one of these 7 no-nonsense tips (including video).

It’s okay to feel very ‘chemotional’ from time to time

Tip 1: Listen to your favorite music

Nothing lifts your mood faster than music. Whether it’s a soothing tune or an energetic rock beat, it works. Several studies even show that listening to music, singing, or making music positively affects the mental wellbeing of people with cancer. So tune in to your favorite radio station, create your own playlist, or make different lists for every mood: calming, comforting, energizing. Maybe you’ve been meaning to dust off those old vinyl records—now might be the perfect time to let music give you energy on a slower day.

Tip 2: Play—and focus on what you can still do

Kids require a lot of energy, but they also help take your mind off your worries. Is it hard to say no to wild games or exhausting outings during chemo? Then involve your kids in daily activities instead. Even the smallest tasks can be turned into something fun when you do them together: making fruit salad, washing veggies, or playing quiet games. It might even be the perfect moment to share old childhood songs, rhymes, or games from your own youth. Scientists have already shown that playing—even as an adult—reduces stress and tension enormously. So go for it.

Tip 3: Send your colleagues a message

If you have a good relationship with your colleagues, you may start missing them a lot during those months at home. In the beginning, texts and cards come pouring in. But halfway through your chemo, it often gets a little quieter. Remember: sometimes people just don’t know if they’re allowed to disturb you, if you feel like talking, or what’s okay to ask. A short message from you breaks the ice and helps them feel comfortable reaching out again.

Tip 4: Bring plants and flowers into your home

Plants and flowers brighten your mood, and caring for them gives you something to do. During cancer treatment, when it feels like everyone is constantly taking care of you, looking after something yourself can be extra meaningful. It slows down time and distracts your mind, giving you something simple and soothing to focus on.

Tip 5: Start a ‘thank you’ notebook

Melissa shares in this video how a simple notebook became her anchor during tough moments. We call it a ‘thank you’ notebook. Curious about how to start one and why it helps so much? Then make sure to read this article too: How a small notebook during chemo can have a big impact on your mood >>

Tip 6: Capture happy moments with photos

Sure, you may not feel like posing for pictures right now—whether it’s your bald head or wearing your chemo hat or scarf. But let go of those insecurities (remember: even people with a full head of hair don’t look like movie stars every day). Instead, capture the moments that make you smile: a neighbor stopping by, a laugh with your partner, trying on new hats with your granddaughter. Keep your phone close and snap away. That way you’ll always have your own personal feel-good album to scroll through whenever you hit a dip.

Tip 7: Fill your lungs with fresh air

Don’t lock yourself inside unnecessarily—try to go for a walk as often as possible. Maybe you’ll only make it a few steps, but even a short break on a bench around the corner can help. Or maybe you have a cozy spot in your garden or on your terrace where you can breathe in fresh oxygen every day. Even on colder autumn days, a warm sweater and a cup of coffee or tea can make it enjoyable. However small the step, every step is progress.

Also read: 4 tips to enjoy the outdoors and feel more energized >>

Extra tip…

And last but not least… “Give a woman new shoes and she can conquer the world,” the saying goes. During chemo, let’s change that to “new hats.” Because that’s exactly how it feels—a fresh color or print on your head makes you feel brand new. So treat yourself to a new chemo hat every now and then. Or even better: let someone surprise you with one.

Browse our collection of chemo hats and chemo scarves and boost your body & mind with the most beautiful colors and prints.