After receiving a serious diagnosis, Montel says a person must learn to deal in his or her own way. "I could quit and say, 'That's it.' Stay in bed and not get up," he says. "Or I can get my butt up every single day being a contributing member to this society and try and figure out how I deal with it."

These days, Montel tries to think of his disease as a gift. "This is what God gave me," he says.

Montel shares one of his calming techniques with Oprah, Dr. Oz and the audience.

• Close your eyes.
• Think back on a wonderful moment in your life.
• Take two deep breaths.
• Open your eyes.

"I go to that place of gratitude," he says. "I go to that place of fulfillment and taking advantage of the small things."