Adjusting to life after cancer treatment

One of the most prevalent and distressing feelings that cancer survivors report is the fear their cancer will return. This can cast a long shadow over everyday life, affecting appetite, sleep, work and leisure activities. Body aches, follow-up medical appointments, anniversary dates or someone else’s diagnosis can trigger this fear.

Tips for coping with the fear of cancer recurrence

• Engage in relaxing activities: Activities like meditation, yoga or journaling can help ground you and reduce anxiety. Finding a regular practice that brings you peace can create a sanctuary in your daily routine.

• Make healthy choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep and exercising regularly can boost your emotional and physical strength. Healthy habits foster a sense of control and well-being.

Related content: Nutrition tips for cancer survivors

• Express your feelings: It’s important to talk about your fears. Share your feelings with friends, family, other survivors or a mental health professional. Sometimes, simply voicing your worries can alleviate their weight.

• Accept your emotions: It’s all right not to be always OK. Allow yourself to feel sadness, anger or fear without judgment. These emotions are a natural part of your healing process.

• Stay involved in follow-up care: Regular medical checkups are crucial. Staying informed and actively participating in your follow-up care can help mitigate fears by addressing concerns promptly.

• Find acceptance and hope: While it’s important to acknowledge your fears, also focus on the joy and hope in your life. Humor and reasons to smile can also be incredibly healing.

Related content: Your brain on laughter: What happens in your brain when you laugh?

Changes to roles and relationships after cancer treatment

Finishing treatment can sometimes feel like losing a “safety” net. You don’t have as many medical appointments or see your cancer care team as often. Relationships and dynamics might have changed during treatment; family and friends usually resume normal activities and roles from before you had cancer and expect the same from you.

Tips for managing new roles and relationships after cancer

• Communicate openly: Be honest with your loved ones about what you can and cannot do as you heal. Clear communication helps set realistic expectations.

• Give yourself time: Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself as you adjust to new roles.

• Accept help: Allowing others to assist you doesn’t mean you’re weak. It’s a way to foster deeper connections and share the load.

• Plan your conversations: Consider how you want to discuss your cancer experience with others. Having a plan can make these conversations less stressful.

• Be open with children: If you have children, explain your ongoing recovery in an honest, age-appropriate way. Kids are often more resilient and understanding than we expect.

If you and your loved ones are having difficulty adjusting to new roles post-cancer, a therapist can help guide your conversations and develop a strategy for creating a new normal that feels good for everyone.

Depression after completing cancer treatment

Just like your body needs to heal physically, your mind needs to heal emotionally. Feelings of anger, loss or sadness are normal and may persist after treatment. For some, these feelings lessen over time, but for others, they may interfere with daily life.

Talk with your doctor if you experience any of the following signs of depression for more than two weeks:

• Persistent anxiety and worry

• Feeling emotionally detached or numb

• Feeling out of control, shaky or overwhelmed

• Feeling guilty or worthless

• Feeling helpless or hopeless

• Having difficulty concentrating and focusing

• Frequently crying or feeling sad and unable to enjoy everyday activities like food or socializing

• Avoiding situations or activities you previously enjoyed

• If you’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate help from a medical or mental health professional.

You can visit your primary care provider for help. At Nuvance Health, you can also contact your oncology social worker or nurse navigator, who can connect you with appropriate help. If you are in crisis, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you can get there safely.

Related content: Top 4 ways to manage mental health after cancer

Tips for dealing with depression after cancer treatment

• Reach out for support: Talk to family and friends or join a support group. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can provide immense relief. Find a cancer support group or event.

• Practice self-care: Engage in activities you enjoy and help you relax. This could be anything from reading a book to walking in nature.

• Set small goals: Accomplishing small, manageable tasks can help build a sense of achievement and improve mood.

• Stay physically active: Exercise releases endorphins, which can naturally boost your mood. Find an activity you enjoy and look forward to.

Related content: Your brain on music: How music can enhance your workout and brain health

• Maintain a routine: A daily routine can provide structure and a sense of normalcy, which can be comforting during recovery.

• Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help you stay grounded and reduce anxiety.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs: These can worsen depression and anxiety. Focus on healthy ways to cope with stress.

Related content: Managing stress without alcohol — exploring healthier alternatives

• Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional if you’re struggling. Therapy and medication can be very effective in treating depression.

Related content: Stressed out? Discover the effect of stress on the brain and ways to manage it.

How does life change after cancer treatment?

Many survivors find they reassess their life’s priorities and values after cancer treatment. Surviving cancer often brings a renewed sense of purpose, strength and positive changes, such as spending more time with loved ones, traveling, pursuing hobbies or engaging in volunteer work.

Tips for managing lifestyle changes after cancer treatment

• Reflect on your experience: Think about how cancer has shaped your outlook on life. What have you learned about yourself?

• Focus on what matters most: Identify and prioritize the activities and relationships that bring you joy and fulfillment.