The end of treatment is a big milestone for cancer survivors. And while it can be a time of relief, it also comes with its own set of challenges. 

You might still be grappling with long-term side effects of cancer or changes in your relationships as a result of illness. There may also be unexpected feelings, such as anxiety or guilt, mixed in with gratitude. 

Life after cancer looks different for everyone, and every experience is valid. Still, there are some practical tips that can help you adjust to the changes that come after treatment.

In Australia? Read the Australian version of this post for information and support tailored to you.

1. Adjusting to your new normal may take time

Life after treatment will often be different from what it was before a cancer diagnosis. Being in remission doesn’t mean that you’re expected to “bounce back” or live exactly the way you used to. This adjustment phase is also gradual, and it’s important to move at a pace that feels right for you. Getting used to your “new normal” post-treatment may involve:

• Giving yourself time to accept and adjust to your new life after cancer treatment
• Setting small, achievable goals that account for your current health and mental state instead of rushing back to old routines.
• Focusing on progress (not perfection), and celebrating little milestones along the way

2. Reflect on the past and plan for the future

Finishing cancer treatment often feels like closing a significant chapter in one’s life. When faced with something as transformative as cancer, many people find themselves looking back and reflecting on how the experience has influenced their sense of self and their hopes for the future. This is a natural time to think about your values and goals looking ahead, and you can do so by:

• Reflecting on life with questions like: What’s important to me now? What’s meaningful to me?
• Engaging in reflective activities like journaling or talking with a trusted person about your thoughts
• Permitting yourself to redefine who you are, your priorities, and your values
• Exploring activities or passions you may have put aside during treatment

3. Continue taking care of your body

Your body has been through a lot, and caring for it remains essential even after treatment has ended. It’s common to be dealing with long-term side effects that require ongoing medical support. During this time, it’s important to prioritize taking care of yourself by: 

• Attending follow-up appointments with your health care team and going for recommended screenings
• Asking your health care providers about managing your health after treatment, including how to manage long-term side effects, and getting information about complementary therapies
• Keeping up with basic self-care, like maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest
• Staying consistent with physical activity, such as walking, stretching, yoga, or any other appropriate exercise that suits your current condition

4. Look after your mental health

While you might be relieved that a significant part of your cancer journey is over, you might still be grappling with other longer-term mental health effects of the illness. Some common feelings post-treatment might include anxiety about cancer recurrence, grieving the loss of your past self, body image problems, and feeling disappointed with your new circumstances. During this time, you can continue looking after your mental well-being by:

• Being patient with yourself and remembering that it takes time to work through these issues and that it’s alright to experience whatever you’re feeling
• Practice mindfulness or meditation to manage tough emotions or calm racing thoughts
• Journaling to help you think through your challenges and have an outlet to express yourself
• Speaking with a counselor or joining a survivorship support group to share your issues with people who understand what you’re going through

5. Tap into your support system

While you may not need as much help with medical appointments or daily tasks anymore, your social support system remains an essential part of your journey. Loved ones can still assist with some of your practical needs (like housekeeping) or be there during the challenging moments of adjusting to life after treatment.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, and you don’t have to navigate this phase of life alone. You can try:

• Letting friends and family know how they can support you, and be specific about what helps (like if they could help you prepare meals or drive you to your appointment with health professionals)
• Connecting with other survivors who can relate to your experiences
• Seeking help from community groups, online forums, or local organizations that may be able to provide practical resources

Cancer: Thriving and surviving after treatment

Many cancer patients hope for steady progress after treatment ends, but it’s totally normal to have some great days and others that are filled with physical and emotional challenges. Remember that adjustment and healing take time, and there’s no need to rush back to “normal” or have everything figured out. Every step forward you take at your own pace is meaningful.

Speak to an Osara Health Coach about adjusting to life after cancer treatment today.