How to Cope During Cancer Remission

Undergoing treatment for cancer may involve chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. During or after treatment is completed a patient may achieve remission which means there is no detectable cancer in the body. A person in cancer remission may have physical effects of treatment to cope with as well as emotional concerns. Everyone's situation and feelings will be different. Some people will have more problems dealing with a remission than others. There are ways to cope during a cancer remission.

Instructions

• 1

  Focus on the positive. The fact that you achieved a remission is something to celebrate. Also consider anything positive that resulted from your experiences such as making new friends.

• 2

  Get back into activities. During your treatment you may have limited work or social activities. Once your doctor gives you the ok get involved in activities you enjoyed. Return to work or school. Spend time with friends.

• 3

  Deal with the physical side effects from treatment. Speak with your doctor about long tern side effects from chemotherapy and radiation. Ask about ways to reduce side effects. Keep in mind it may take time to feel like you did prior to your cancer diagnosis and treatment.

• 4

  Talk about your fears. When you have completed treatment and reached a remission you may fear the cancer will return. Every pain may cause you to worry. Constant worrying is stressful and unhealthy. Consider ways to relax such as exercise and meditation. Talk with a friend or counselor to learn ways to cope with fears.

• 5

  Join a support group. No one may understand your concerns and feelings about a cancer remission like someone who is experiencing the same thing. Your doctor or hospital should have information on cancer support groups in your area. Contact the American Cancer Society for addition information on support groups.

• 6

  Accept you may feel different about some aspects of your life. Going through a major life event such as cancer treatment may change you temporarily or permanently. After achieving remission you may have changed priorities or view life differently. Don't feel bad if you have reassessed priorities in your life. It may be for the best.

• 7

  Let go of survivor's guilt. You may have made friends with other cancer patients while you were going through treatment. Although you achieved remission friends may still be battling the disease and some may not make it. Keep in mind everyone's response to treatment is different. Don't feel guilty because your body responded to treatment.