Information: As discussed in previous sections, having the information you need – in a way you understand - can also help in preparing for treatment, so that you know what to expect - and what support is available to help you through it and after it. Ask questions: Making good use of the time you have in clinic, or by phone, with your treatment team - to discuss any particular concerns you may have / to ask questions - can help to reassure / reduce any anxieties you may have about treatment. Managing Expectations: “One of the single most important things you can do is to make sure you and your cancer care team are on the same page about exactly what your treatment involves. That includes what will happen during treatment, how long treatment will take, what the potential side effects are, and what the ultimate goal of your treatment is.”
Quote: Dale R. Shepard, MD, PhD, Cleveland Clinic, USA.
It is not unusual to feel a bit low in mood, rather than relief, once treatment is completed – usually 1-2 weeks afterwards – this is a perfectly normal reaction and usually improves over time, as you physically recover. However, feeling this way, may cause anxiety if you are not aware it may happen. If it occurs, and you are worried about it or it does not seem to get better as you physically recover, you may want to talk with your nurse specialist, clinical team / GP about accessing support to help you manage this. Be prepared to give yourself time to heal and recover - we all do this at different rates - take the time you and your body needs.
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