Survivors Center

Recovery is a process, not a date on the calendar. The simple fact of having cancer treatment end does not automatically make you as strong as you hope to become. Indeed, the gradual pace of recovery—which often lasts longer than your cancer treatment—usually surprises patients, their families and friends.

Life after treatment can be a stressful time. You may grow anxious or depressed. It’s easy to feel lonely as well.

Just as emotional support from others was important in helping you during treatment, that need continues now. Yet, since you’re no longer a patient, you most likely have less contact with the medical professionals who were supportive during your care. Some of the people around you—friends, co-workers, neighbors, loved ones—might not even realize the emotional needs you have at this time. To them, you are okay because you’ve finished treatment. Others may be unable to be supportive due to their own personal reasons.

Even the people you love the most, and are closest to, may not be able to help with all of your emotional needs. However, you can find post-treatment emotional support from several other sources:

• Professional therapists, such as psychologists, health psychologists, or social workers
• Clergy— for spiritual counseling
• Support groups for cancer survivors (groups may be open to all, or specifically for men, women, teens or people who had one type of cancer)

Joining a support group doesn’t have to mean attending meetings at a specific location on a regular basis. You can join one of many survivor support groups that meet online. Through Internet bulletin boards and chat rooms at cancer websites, you’ll be able to connect with others who are navigating life after treatment. You can also read their stories, share your own story, and gain valuable emotional support.

These online support groups offer you a community that’s available round-the-clock. Many cancer survivors credit their online support group with helping them through emotionally tough times. There are also groups for family members and caregivers.