Recurrent Cancer

Emotional Reactions to a Cancer Recurrence

A cancer recurrence can be devastating and bring out a lot of difficult emotions. Not everyone has the same feeling when their cancer returns, but many people feel the following emotions when they hear their cancer has come back.

Coping with a Cancer Recurrence

These emotions can be frustrating and difficult to deal with, but it is important to maintain a positive outlook and not let your emotions get the best of you. This is not your first time battling cancer, and you can do it again. If you start feeling really down, you should seek some support or medical help. Don't deny yourself the opportunity to feel better. Here are some good ways to cope with these difficult emotions:

• Counseling
• Support groups
• Religion and Spirituality
• Exercise
• Meditation and other relaxation techniques

Ongoing research by medical professionals has led to the development of new treatments and approaches that have greatly improved the prognosis for patients with recurrent cancer. Don't let cancer take away your hope, peace, or faith. Remember that you've already been through this before, and your experience has given you more preparation than you had the first time.

Last reviewed on 11/1/2020 by:

• Jeffrey Yorio, MD
  Medical Oncologist
  The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
  Texas Oncology