I’ve finished chemotherapy and awaiting surgery but my emotions are all over the place. Is this normal?
I’ve finished chemotherapy and awaiting surgery but my emotions are all over the place. Is this normal?
I am sorry to hear you have been through chemotherapy, and have surgery to come. I can only imagine this has been a very tough time for you , emotionally and physically.
In answer to your question "is this normal?" Yes it is. This time of your life, can bring a wide range of understandable emotions, including shock, fear, anxiety, sadness, and depression, as well as physical symptoms like fatigue, unexplained pain, weight loss, or new lumps or swelling. These experiences are highly individual, and what one person feels can differ significantly from another's. Fozia you may find this booklet helpful, it is about some of the emotions that people with cancer have.
May I ask Fozia do you have support around you at this time? I ask as sometimes, cancer patients can feel isolated, and find it hard to share their feeling with partners, family and friends.
Talking about your feelings openly and getting the right support can help. It can help you feel more in control. You may find the idea of talking uncomfortable. But talking to someone about how you feel can help you cope with your emotions. It is often the first step in helping you feel better. Talking about things can also make you feel supported. It can also help you make decisions that are right for you.
You are welcome to call the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00 between 8am and 8pm on any day or find local support. You can also ask your cancer doctor, specialist nurse or GP for advice and help getting support. Fozia many people with cancer find that they would like an extra level of emotional support, such as talking therapies and Counselling please feel that reaching out for support is a valuable way of helping you to cope.
I hope you feel there are many ways to help you during this difficult time, recovering from chemotherapy, and waiting for surgery. Perhaps have a think about your options, in the knowledge, that you are always welcome to come back to us, or, as mentioned above, give us a ring or web chat. Alongside our Information and Support Advisers, there are Cancer Information Nurses on the Support Line, also working from 8am to 8pm, you are welcome to speak with a nurse about your treatment and your feelings.
I wish you all the very best
Liz
Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Advisor
