Survivorship
When you or your loved one was diagnosed with cancer, life changed. Your world was focused on the disease. You may have had to go through radiation or chemo treatment or even surgery. You spent time and energy learning to manage your side effects. You had an entire care team dedicated to your healthcare needs, but now that you are in remission or completely cured, you may be asking what do you focus on now?
Life is different after cancer. Yes, there’s the relief of no more cancer treatments, but there’s also the discovery of new challenges that cancer survivorship can bring. These challenges are often referred to as adjusting to a “new normal.”
For many cancer survivors, this new normal takes some getting used to and everything doesn’t feel like it used to necessarily. For starters, you may be filled with thoughts of uncertainty about the future and experiencing a wide range of emotions you’re not used to dealing with. At the same time, you may be recognizing that life has a different meaning now that you’re moving past the cancer treatment phase.
This type of adjustment is unique for each survivor. Whatever your new normal may be, remember that it’s okay to take time for yourself until you’ve become comfortable with the changes. Take it one day at a time. Your cancer care team is still here for you during this transition, so be sure to talk openly with them about any struggles or concerns you have. They will be able to provide you with tips on how to cope or refer you to other sources of support. Below are a few items to consider.
Dealing with Long-Term Side Effects
Some cancer survivors may have physical changes to cope with once treatment is done, which may include changes to the way you look, feel and engage in regular activities. Depending on the type of treatment given, some changes may be temporary, while others are permanent. Some treatments have no lingering effect at all.
Common physical changes that survivors may experience after treatment include:
- Bone, nerve and/or soft tissue pain that is typically caused by the tumor pressing on these areas (sometimes pain is due to cancer treatment)
- Fatigue
- Memory and concentration changes (sometimes known as “chemo brain”)
- Nervous system changes (neuropathy) that causes tingling or numbness, especially in the hands and feet
- Mouth or teeth problems
- Changes in sexual drive
- Changes in weight or eating habits
- Menopause symptoms
- Bladder or bowel control problems
Please remember that your experience may be unique and different from others, and that’s perfectly okay. Adjusting to the effects of cancer treatment takes time. If you have questions or concerns about any of the changes in your body, be sure to talk with your oncologist or oncology nurse.
Returning to Work
What happens when the doctor announces you are finally cancer free…and you’re healthy enough to go back to work? How do you adjust? What are a few items you should consider? Or work with your employer on?
- Take it easy. It may be tempting to throw yourself back into your job at 100%, but you’ve been through a lot! Be kind to yourself, and don’t overdo it—your mental and emotional well-being are worth it.
- Don’t expect to know everything. If you’ve been out of work for an extended period, things may have changed. Don’t go in expecting to be an expert on everything—you may need extra training or a helping hand, so don’t be afraid to ask.
Don’t feel obligated to share. If it’s what you want, it’s completely okay to disclose your cancer diagnosis to your coworkers. Maybe they’ve even been there for you during your illness! Of course, if you don’t disclose and if you’ve been gone for a while or undergone a physical transformation, there may be questions. But remember that you aren’t obligated to share any medical information with anyone at work unless you want to.
- Ask for accommodations. Don’t be afraid to request a work environment that is conducive to you. The ADA requires workplaces to provide reasonable accommodations when needed. For more information, visit https://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/accommodation.html. If you’re concerned about talking to your boss, reach out to your human resources department.
- Expect different emotions. After you’re deemed cancer free, you may find it hard to go through life without the support you once had. But that doesn’t mean you’re alone. It may be helpful to share your feelings with a loved one, or even to speak to a therapist. Some workplaces may even offer counseling services.
- Get to know Human Resources (HR). HR isn’t there just for complaints—they can help you manage your transition back into the workplace.
- You can do it. Maybe it’ll be easy to get back into the swing of things, or maybe returning to work again will feel like a whole new job. Regardless, it’s important to recognize that you’ve already accomplished amazing things.
Mental Health and Support after Treatment
You’re finished with treatment, and that’s great! You might be tempted to rush back into your regular activities, but reacclimate at your own pace. Your mental (and physical) health will thank you.
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for a referral to a therapist. You faced cancer head-on and came out on top—and such a battle can leave both physical and emotional scars. Talk to a mental health professional about any feelings you may have, and make sure to loop your cancer care team in too.
And make sure to seek support as you need it. If you aren’t comfortable talking to a therapist, or just need an extra set of empathetic ears, find a family member or close friend. Many doctors can recommend support groups that meet regularly where you can share thoughts and experiences with other members.
Don’t give up! There are many different therapies to address the mental health challenges you may experience. Keep your care team in the loop so they can make sure your concerns are being addressed quickly.
Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.