Navigating Life After Cancer: A Guide to Physical & Emotional Healing
So, you've kicked cancer's butt—congratulations!
Now what?
Life after cancer can feel like being thrown into the deep end of a pool when you thought you were done swimming. But don't worry, you're not alone.
Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of breast cancer, cervical cancer, or another type, navigating this new chapter involves a mix of physical and emotional healing.
This guide is here to help you tackle the good, the bad, and the downright confusing parts of life post-cancer. From managing fatigue and finding your new normal to handling the rollercoaster of emotions, we've got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about the challenges ahead and how to conquer them head-on.
Understanding Life After Cancer
Common Challenges Faced by Cancer Survivors
Let's start with the physical challenges that are a part of life after cancer. Whether it's hair loss, weight changes, fatigue, lymphedema or muscle loss, cancer patients are faced with many unfamiliar bodily changes that are difficult to overcome. They often look in the mirror and think, "Who the hell is that staring back at me?!"
Along with the physical changes after patients have recovered from cancer, many are also faced with emotional and psychological challenges that can have a deep impact on their mental health. The anxiety and fear of a recurrence can be overwhelming and make it difficult to move forward with a positive attitude and the strength necessary to thrive. Also, depression and anxiety are extremely common post treatment and often require professional help.
Physical Healing After Cancer
Life After Breast Cancer
Some of the most common physical changes after breast cancer treatment are fatigue, weight gain or loss, lymphedema, and of course, the appearance of your breasts according to the type of surgery chosen. Oh, I forgot one... memory issues! Chemo brain is the gift that keeps on giving! Because breast cancer patients are faced with so many issues, it is important to have regular follow up visits with your whole medical team. Life after breast cancer may seem daunting at first, but it definitely gets better over time!
In many cases, different therapies are recommended to speed up recovery and improve your muscle strength and flexibility. Many patients will see a physical or occupational therapist to help with lymphedema and other related issues involving the arm on the cancer side. Exercise is also key in recovery and recommended moving forward in your new anti-cancer lifestyle.
Life After Cervical Cancer
There are also many long term side effects of cervical cancer. Amongst the many are lymphedema, bladder changes, digestive changes, swelling, reproductive and sexual health. Managing these involves a combination of medical intervention and self-care practices. Many cervical cancer patients will require both oral and topical medications to offset the long-term side effects. This requires regular follow up visits with your whole medical team.
Self- care is also vital for cervical cancer recovery. Eating a healthy diet, regular exercise and focusing on a positive mindset are several ways to enhance your overall wellness.
Cervical cancer survivors may also experience debilitating sexual side effects including low libido, difficulty with arousal, vaginal dryness and lack of sensation. This may warrant visiting with your gynecologist or sex health specialist to find remedies that may help with these side effects.
Proper nutrition is also key in cervical cancer recovery. A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean protein and fiber is recommended for optimal wellness.
General Tips for Physical Well-being After Any Type Of Cancer
The most important components of cancer recovery are a healthy and balanced diet, regular exercise and self-care. There is no need to make extreme diet changes, but including fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean protein and fiber are essential to maximize your recovery. Limiting things like red meat, alcohol, processed meats will also reduce the risk of a cancer recurrence.
Regular exercise is another way to boost your immune system, decrease fatigue and help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The recommendation is 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes a week of more intense exercise. Some great options are walking/running, yoga, weight lifting, spinning and pilates.
Emotional Healing After Cancer
Understanding Emotional Healing
Many people are faced with many challenging emotions following a cancer diagnosis and treatment. It is important to recognize the stress, anxiety and depression that often coexist with the physical side effects. The worries of a cancer recurrence are real, which emphasizes the importance of emotional healing and building strength and a positive mindset.
Coping Strategies for Emotional Healing
There are many ways for cancer survivors to get the emotional support needed to combat their anxiety and depression. Seeking help from a licensed therapist or coach is one option. Counseling can give cancer patients the coping strategies that will allow them to manage stress, anxiety, and other cancer related challenges.
Joining support groups or utilizing community resources is also a great way to find emotional support. Being part of a like-minded community can be very healing and can diminish feelings of isolation.
Practicing mindfulness is a great way to shift your mindset from one of worry and negativity to strength and empowerment. This can be done through meditation or re-directing your thoughts to what you can control and away from the "what-ifs."
Building a New Normal
Life after cancer can feel like a blend of relief that treatment is over and uncertainty about the future. As survivors navigate recovery, finding a new normal can be challenging. It is important to redefine your purpose and find joy and happiness in each and every day. In order to achieve this, balancing work, home life and self-care is essential. It may take a while to find that balance and that is perfectly fine! The purpose is to redirect your mindset from patient to thriver!
In conclusion, healing from cancer is a long journey of ups and downs.The rollercoaster ride may be bumpy but hopefully it will turn you into a WARRIOR!