When experts devote their time on developing cure for cancer, most of us are not aware of the challenges that a cancer survivor faces after winning the life-threatening battle. Most women cancer survivors find themselves dealing with
emotional fallout -- fear of recurrence, depression, body changes, loneliness, and changing relationships -- to name a few. The Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource offers steps to deal with life's chapters after cancer.
It helps a lot if you will be very honest about your feelings, for only when you acknowledge the problem can you begin to solve it. Do not be critical of how your loved ones have handled things during your illness or how they are handling your return to health. It is not that easy to adapt to changes especially if they are too drastic. Clarify to your family and friends what you can and can't do and encourage them to be also clear about their expectations of you. Cliche as it may sound, but laugh as often as possible. Laughing helps release endorphins which are brain chemicals that help fight pain and depression. Finally, devote your time in keeping a healthy lifestyle by doing regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and having a
well-balanced diet.
