Addressing the array of emotions that follow a cancer diagnosis

A cancer diagnosis comes as a shock to many whose plans and goals suddenly come to an abrupt halt as they grapple with what’s ahead.

Their calendar fills up with medical appointments. Their work or school life changes. They may worry about finances, taking care of their family or even having the chance to have a family. They worry about how sick they will feel from treatments, what the side effects may be and, of course, their mortality.

These concerns may change daily, hourly, or even minute to minute, the National Cancer Institute notes. This is true whether they are in treatment or have finished their treatment plan. Those with a friend or family member diagnosed with cancer often feel a mix of emotions, as well.

“It’s OK to feel sadness, grief, fear or whatever it is you need to feel,” says Elana Campbell, a licensed clinical social worker who has worked closely with cancer patients at Sentara Health. “These feelings are normal, and there are resources to help you process them.”

Timing of diagnosis

For many cancers, screenings provide opportunities for an earlier diagnosis before the disease has spread far from the original site. In those cases when cancer is found in its early stages, treatment may be less rigorous, and the person could face a lower chance of recurrence.

That’s why mammograms and self-exams are crucial to detecting breast cancer in earlier stages. Same for colonoscopies to find colon cancer, Pap tests for cervical cancer and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests for prostate cancer screenings, for example.

Some cancers, such as ovarian cancer, don’t produce symptoms early on and do not have screenings yet. This used to be the case for lung cancer, as well, until CT scans became widely used for those with lung cancer risk factors.

“Ovarian cancer is often found at later stages and, unfortunately, has a high rate of recurrence,” Campbell notes. “This can lead to higher levels of anxiety, and emotional and existential distress.

Women often brush off symptoms, like those of cancer or a heart attack. They second-guess their feelings. They fear wasting a provider's time. They also worry about fitting an appointment into their schedules.

“If something in your health has changed, let your doctor know,” Campbell urges. “Often the anxiety we feel about the unknown or bringing up symptoms is actually more distressing than going to the doctor and getting answers.”

Psychosocial effects of cancer

Having cancer affects the physical, social, emotional and spiritual parts of life. This is referred to as the psychosocial effect of cancer, the American Cancer Society explains.

People with cancer and their loved ones may experience depression, anger, mood swings and feelings of isolation.

A cancer diagnosis can be devastating at any age. But it may impact younger adults' mental health—and lives—more, according to the American Psychological Association.

One study found that survivors diagnosed between 15 and 39 had more emotional distress than those diagnosed at 40 or older.

Talking it out

Talking through your concerns and fears is as important to your recovery after a cancer diagnosis as your medical treatment.

Sentara offers several support groups, both in person and virtual. CancerCare also offers a range of free virtual, online support groups.

“Attending a support group is a great way to connect with others, express your feelings and both get and give support,” Campbell says.

One-on-one counseling is also a helpful tool. A licensed mental health professional can help you work through your feelings and learn new coping strategies during what can be a very difficult time.

“Everyone is different. Our goal is to find a solution that works for you," Campbell adds. "We want our patients to use the many resources to improve their mental well-being for people. We also hope that their loved ones will reach out to find the support they need."

Learn more about cancer support groups at Sentara and sign up for one.