Life after cancer

Cancer survivorship starts at the time of diagnosis and lasts a lifetime. Over the past 40 years, cancer survival rates have risen from 53% to 72%, driven by advancements in research and treatment. However, research shows that by 2030, more than 350,000 Queenslanders will be living with cancer. At Cancer Council Queensland, we’re committed to ensuring no one faces this journey alone.

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Our team is here to listen and support you.

What is the meaning of survivorship?

Cancer survivorship means living with, throughout, and beyond cancer. Whether you embrace the term “survivor” as a symbol of strength or prefer not to use this label, your experience matters, and isn’t over the day your doctor gives you the ‘all clear’.

Common post-treatment challenge

When cancer treatment comes to an end, it is not uncommon for a cancer survivor to feel both anxious and relieved. You might experience this yourself, and it can be easy to feel a mix of emotions all at once, all while navigating your new ‘normal’. Anyone who has experienced cancer survivorship will know the impact of cancer extends well beyond the physical aspects of recovery, touching nearly every facet of life.

Many cancer survivors may notice shifts in their relationships with family and friends, as both sides adjust to the post-treatment phase. Practical concerns can often arise, like questions about returning to work and managing long-term health monitoring – and the feelings of anxiety that can come with it.

Many survivors find themselves dealing with changes in their body and self-image, as well as significant shifts in their life priorities and overall perspective. While you might feel happy to have completed your treatment, you might also feel a sense of grief about things you may have lost during your illness. These changes, while challenging, are a natural part of the cancer survivorship process, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

Your cancer experience doesn’t just stop when active treatment ends. Whether you’re a cancer survivor, family member or friend, it can take time to adjust to life after treatment.

Managing fear of recurrence

It’s normal to feel anxious about cancer returning. This is one of the most common challenges a cancer survivor will face. Many survivors experience this fear to some degree, and it may come and go for many years.

While this anxiety is natural, there are several ways to manage these feelings:

  • Keep a diary of your concerns
  • Practise relaxation techniques
  • Stay connected with your healthcare team
  • Talk to others who understand
  • Focus on what you can control, like healthy lifestyle choices.

We’re here to help you to develop coping strategies and to know where to find support when you need it. Remember, our counselling service is free and available to help you develop coping strategies.

Taking control of your health

One in three cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices. Research tells us that maintaining a healthy lifestyle after cancer treatment can have a positive impact not only on your health, but also on your sense of wellbeing.

As a cancer survivor, you may feel more in control if you prioritise:

How do I build a new ‘normal’ after cancer treatment?

Finding your new normal takes time and patience. You can start by:

  • Setting small, achievable goals for yourself
  • Being open with family and friends about your needs
  • Making healthy lifestyle choices at your own pace
  • Joining a support group to connect with others
  • Creating a survivorship care plan with your healthcare team

Remember, everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no ‘right’ way to adjust to life after cancer.

Support services available

These challenges are a normal part of cancer survivorship, and the support you receive doesn’t have to end when your cancer treatment does. We’re here to help.

Cancer Council Queensland can help you and your family find a ‘new normal’. You may be thinking about taking control of your health and physical wellbeing. You may have concerns about getting back into the workforce or have financial worries.

After treatment ends, it’s common to experience a mix of emotions – from relief and joy to anxiety and uncertainty. Many survivors report feeling isolated, fatigued, or worried about the future. Physical and emotional changes are normal parts of the recovery journey. If you’re concerned about how you’re feeling, our cancer advisors at 13 11 20 are here to listen and help you understand what to expect.

When should I call Cancer Council Queensland?

You can call us at 13 11 20 anytime you:

  • Need information about life after cancer
  • Want to talk about your concerns
  • Feel overwhelmed or anxious
  • Need practical support
  • Have questions about healthy living
  • Want to connect with support services.

Our cancer advisors are here to help with any questions – big or small.

Have other questions? Talk to us.

Our team is here to listen and support you.