Connect
← Return to Emotional health after cancer: How are you doing really?
Discussion
Emotional health after cancer: How are you doing really?
Cancer: Managing Symptoms | Last Active: Jan 5 9:57am | Replies (291)Comment receiving replies
For me, I think one of the hardest things is will the cancer return. Every ache and pain sends me to that way of thinking. It's been three years since a double mastectomy with lymph node removal and I'm hoping that it will diminish each year. Best wishes all!🦋
Replies to "For me, I think one of the hardest things is will the cancer return. Every ache..."
Connect
The possibility of a recurrence is often uppermost in survivors’ and caregivers’ minds. It is easy to say don’t worry but hard to do.
I have a few suggestions for you and others who are struggling with these thoughts.
1. Find a physical activity that you enjoy—preferably that involves others if you are not already exercising. EG. Anything from pickle ball to line dancing if you are not in a regular strength/cardio activity. This will actually help avoid a recurrence, but while you are active you can’t think about having been ill.
2. Absolutely, change your diet if you are currently eating a high carb/high Sugar diet and make sure you add foods known to be high in cancer fighting antioxidents.
3. Tale up a hobby or activity that fascinates or absorbs your thoughts.
4. Find the humour in life. Take some time every week to read or see a movie that makes you laugh.
5. Get involved in a project that is bigger than ourselves that is meaningful to you in your community or in the world.
6. If this is something for you—maybe not for everyone, speak with a therapist or join a survivors group to meet others who will understand the concerns (and some of whom you may bond with).
Finally, consider this thought. You have completed your treatment and have been well for three years. That is a wonderful an accomplishment for you and your health care team. Best wishes for continued good health.