How to manage anxiety after cancer
The moment you’ve been eagerly anticipating has arrived. You’ve completed your cancer treatment, rung the bell, and your loved ones and healthcare team are celebrating you. It’s a time of joy and relief. However, you may also find yourself with a new and unfamiliar feeling of anxiety.
Anxiety has its roots in fear of the unknown, dread and uneasiness, and those are common responses to stress. After all, you have just finished one of the most challenging chapters of your life.
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The most common fear is of a cancer recurrence. It is normal for these feelings to be intense before scans or follow-up appointments. When this happens, focus on the present and acknowledge that you’ve done everything you could. Stay proactive by attending your appointments and communicating any changes to your healthcare provider.
Another common source of anxiety after treatment is adjusting to a new normal. Returning to work, school and social activities can be anxiety-inducing. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and communicate openly with your support system. Explain that you might still have some lingering side effects, such as fatigue or pain, from cancer treatments. Take things at your own pace and be patient with yourself.
Lastly, if you are having a more difficult time than normal, you might be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A cancer diagnosis and treatment are traumatic events—it’s OK not to be OK. Talk with your healthcare provider and seek professional guidance. As a reminder, licensed clinical social workers on the FCS Behavioral Health team are available to help and can provide telehealth therapy for FCS patients.
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