We know it can be difficult adjusting to life after breast cancer treatment. We have been told by many patients that they feel lost and alone once their treatment has finished.

Each person's experience with cancer is different, and the feelings, emotions, and fears that you have are unique as well.  So, just as you need to take care of your body after treatment, you need to take care of your mental health too.

Here are a few things that we know happen to some patients, so if they happen to you, you know you’re not alone.

• Will it come back?  One of the most common fears after treatment is that the cancer will recur, especially during the first year after treatment. As time goes by, many survivors report that this fear reduces, and they find themselves thinking less often about their cancer.  Give yourself time.

• Facing up to old problems.  When you were diagnosed, you probably didn’t have time or headspace to think about other problems, such as concerns about family, friends, work, or finances.  Now that treatment is over, these issues may begin to resurface even though you are tired and may feel you’ve already got too much to handle.  Ask yourself which are the most important issues and ask for help.  You can’t do it all.

• I’m worried about getting stressed!  Many cancer survivors worry that stress may have played a role in their illness. It is important to remember that the exact cause of many cancers is still unknown. No research shows that stress causes cancer, but stress can cause other health problems so learning to deal with stress is key for you right now.  See our article on coping with stress.

• I need to talk.  Life after treatment can make you angry, tense, or sad. For most people, these feelings reduce or go away over time, but for up to one in four people emotions can become severe.  While we are encouraged to talk about our emotions you may feel you’ve already done that and don’t want to burden friends or family anymore.  Keep talking – we know it can be worse for your long-term health if you keep your emotions bottled up.

• Others don’t understand.  You may feel that only others who have had cancer can understand what you’re going through.  Feeling like these are normal but a good listener can just as easily be someone who hasn’t shared your experience.  As long as they are happy to listen and comfort you – let them.

• I feel alone.  After treatment, you may miss the support you got from your health care team and feel as if your safety net has been pulled away.  While the cancer support team’s attention must be on those going through treatment, they are always there to advise you, as is your GP and local cancer support services. Never feel alone or think that you are wasting their time by highlighting when you have hit a low point. 

• I feel cut off from my family and friends.  Often, friends and family want to help, but they don't know how and end up keeping their distance in fear of upsetting you.   The more open and honest you are with the, the easier they will find it to be close to you.

Good luck with your recovery.