How to Get Help
While experiencing any of these emotions is normal, that doesn’t mean you have to suffer alone. If you find that your feelings are overwhelming you or interfering in your every day life, it’s a good idea to consider getting some outside help.
Sometimes talking with friends or family can help. But you might feel like those people can’t truly understand what you’re going through if they haven’t had cancer. You might consider using one or more of the following options or come up with one of your own:
- Meet with a counselor. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional who can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings and come up with ways to better cope with cancer following treatment.
- Talk with another cancer survivor. Discuss your concerns with someone else who has completed cancer treatment and understands what it is like to be in recovery.
- Attend a support group. Support groups, whether in your community or online, provide a great place to share your feelings and hear from others who are going through a similar experience. It is an opportunity for you to learn new ways of coping with fears.
- Contact cancer organizations. Call the American Cancer Society, CancerCare and other organizations to be matched up with a person who has had a similar experience with cancer as you. This is an opportunity to talk on the phone with a cancer survivor to receive information and peer support.
Come up with your own plan for coping with your emotions. You know what works best for you. Have an open mind and try different strategies to find out what brings you the most peace and comfort.