Content Overview
- Summary
- Expect A Mix of Emotions
- Express Feelings: Find A Colorectal Cancer Buddy. Join A Support Group. Write. Do Art.
- Consider Previous Coping Mechanisms
- When To Seek Professional Help
- Give Yourself A Break
- Consider Getting A Pet
- Do Something Life Affirming
- Expect Anxiety Before Medical Appointments
- Decide How To Define Yourself
- If Your Colorectal Cancer Was Not Completely Eliminated
Colorectal Cancer: Post Treatment 0-6 Months: Emotional Well Being: Stages II,III,IV
Summary
Next »1/11
The first six months after the end of treatment for colorectal cancer are likely to be emotionally difficult. In addition to the sense of joy and elation, there is also likely to be heightened anxiety and a sense of loss - possibly even depression. Your medical team has been a source of security - plus you've been taking action. Now you’re seemingly on your own. Questions surface such as "What's next?", "How can I stay healthy?", “What if it comes back?”
To help cope, consider the following time tested ideas, each of which are discussed in other sections of this article:
- Give yourself a break. You deserve it.
- Talk – with your spouse or significant other, family, friends, possibly even co-workers.
- Find and talk with a colorectal cancer buddy.
- Consider joining a support group or a self help group.
- Consider getting a pet.
- Decide how to define your self going forward.
- Do something life affirming.
- Keep humor in your life.
- Use whatever worked for you in the past. to get you through difficult times.
If emotions interfere with life, speak with your doctor or reach out to a mental health professional with experience in helping people cope with a life changing health condition. (See “To Learn More”). If the holidays are approaching and you are having a difficult time emotionally related to colorectal cancer, learn how to cope by clicking here.
Please share how this information is useful to you. 0 Comments
Post a Comment Have something to add to this topic? Contact Us.