Dealing with a Cancer Survivor's Post-Recovery Fears

Recently, one of my readers asked  this question: My wife was diagnosed with cancer 2 years ago but is cancer free, after undergoing treatment. But I feel like she is not moving on. Is there cause for worry?

Answer: 
It is not unusual for cancer survivors to feel depression. According to theAmerican Cancer Society as many as 50 per cent of cancer survivors will feel symptoms - some more profound than others. Depression can be hard to diagnose  in cancer survivors because the symptoms are so similar to the side effects  of cancer treatment, including weight loss, fatigue, insomnia and inability to concentrate.  

When your wife was diagnosed with cancer, you both most likely focused all
of your attention on her treatment and getting healthy. During that time she
was surrounded by a cancer care team. Although you are eager to return to a
more normal life, it may be scary for her to leave the protective cocoon. Now
that she has finished treatment she may feel overwhelmed with all the things
that were put on hold during that time. She may have a long to do list in her
head that makes her feel stressed.   

Fear of recurrence is also very common in cancer survivors. Although they may
go for years without any sign of disease, cancer survivors say the thought of
recurrence is always lingering with them. “It was like a black cloud hovering
over my head. I was in this gray world and very frightened. Everyone around
me thought I should be celebrating but I was exhausted and scared.” A young
woman expressed in one of my support groups. “Others don’t understand what I have been through.”   

Most cancer survivors report that the fear of recurrence becomes more
manageable over time or disappears entirely. For others, these painful
emotions don’t go away and can get in the way of everyday life.  

Just as cancer treatment can cause changes to your body, it can also affect
your feelings and emotions. Recovering from cancer treatment isn’t just about
healing your body but also about healing your mind and soul.  

Don't let your wife deal with fears or loneliness alone. Suggest joining a
support group with other cancer survivors who are having the same emotions as she is. If your wife feels uncomfortable discussing her fears in a group,
suggest that she records her thoughts and feelings in a journal. You can also
contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society for more
information. Or try an online message board for cancer survivors, such as the
American Cancer Society's Cancer Survivors Network.

Linda Burhans is a keynote speaker, best-selling author and caregiver advocate
with Harmony Home Health. To find a support group or workshop in your area
facilitated by Linda go to www.harmonyhh.com.