The survivorship experience can bring with it a mix of emotions. Sometimes, you might have worried thoughts or anxiety, which can be uncomfortable but are common. This guide explains why you might feel this way and what you can do about it.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is the body's alarm system, and is supposed to help let you know when there is a threat. As with any alarm system, sometimes it can be too sensitive and send an alert when there is nothing dangerous. This can cause feelings of worry and uneasiness. Anxiety can impact your thoughts and cause physical symptoms,like having a knot in your stomach or feeling jittery. Sometimes, even when you receive good news or reassurance that everything is ok, it can be hard to stop worrying.
Why Do Cancer Survivors Feel Anxiety?
Cancer survivors can feel anxiety for the same reasons that non cancer survivors feel anxiety. These can include family, work, finances, the future, and many others. Sometimes the cancer experience can worsen or lessen these worries. There are also increased anxieties related to the cancer experience that may include anxieties about recovery and fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). FCR occurs when a survivor worries that their cancer is coming back. While it is common to have these worries, if you notice they are impacting your day to day, there are strategies to manage them.
Signs of Anxiety:
Here are some things you might feel if you're anxious:
1. You worry a lot, even about small things.
2. It's hard to sit still or concentrate.
3. You might easily feel upset, sad, or irritable.
4. Your muscles might feel tight or shaky.
5. You might have trouble sleeping.
6. You might experience other physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, pounding heart, dizziness.
Recommendations to Manage Anxiety Symptoms:
1. Learn About Anxiety: Understanding anxiety can help you manage it better.
2. Talk to Someone: Sharing your feelings with a friend or therapist can make you feel better.
3. Try Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, stretching, or listening to calm music can help you relax.
4. Stay Active: Taking walks, doing yoga, or exercise can improve your mood.
5. Monitor Your Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Drinks like soda, coffee, energy drinks, or alcohol can sometimes increase anxiety. Try to notice how they make you feel and adjust your intake as needed.
6. Focus on You: Eating nutritious food, getting good sleep, and taking care of your wellbeing can help you feel less anxious
Feeling anxious after a cancer experience is normal, but you don't have to face it alone. If you're feeling worried or anxiety is making it hard for you to engage in the things that bring you joy, talking to a therapist or doctor can make a big difference. OncoveryCare has specialists, including therapists, who are ready to assist you.
