Anxiety and Panic Attacks in Cancer Survivors

Understanding the Emotional Obstacles

Being a cancer survivor is a remarkable achievement, but it doesn’t come without its emotional challenges. Long after treatment ends, survivors often grapple with anxiety and distress. Let’s delve into this complex terrain, paying particular attention to the experiences of children who have battled cancer.

1. The Post-Treatment Transition

When cancer treatment comes to an end, family and friends eagerly anticipate celebration. However, many survivors don’t feel ready to move forward. The shift from regular medical visits to less frequent check-ins can be unsettling. Suddenly, the safety net of healthcare providers feels distant, and anxiety levels rise unexpectedly.

 2. The Fear of Recurrence

Fear that cancer will return is a common source of distress. Survivors often experience “scanxiety” - a term coined by some to describe the anxiety surrounding follow-up scans. These scans become emotional roulette wheels, spinning us between hope and apprehension. Will it land on red (another trip to Cancerland) or black (a few more months of freedom)?

3. Children and Anxiety

Hospitalization and Separation

Children with cancer face unique challenges. Medical procedures, hospital stays, and separation from family and friends can trigger anxiety. As caregivers, it’s crucial to work closely with the care team to identify strategies that help children cope during these difficult times.

Health Anxiety Disorder

Some survivors, including children, develop health anxiety disorder related to the fear of cancer recurrence. They become hyper-aware of any physical symptoms, constantly focused on their cancer status, and may request more frequent medical tests and visits than necessary.

4. Survivor Guilt: 

While grateful to be alive, survivors may feel guilty about outliving fellow patients they connected with during treatment or support groups. The question shifts from “Why me?” to “Why not me?” when thinking of those who didn’t survive.

Coping Strategies

General Coping Techniques

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Encourage survivors to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can alleviate anxiety.

Support Groups: Connecting with other survivors provides emotional support and a sense of community.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps manage stress and anxiety.

Seek Professional Help: If anxiety becomes debilitating, professional counseling or therapy can be immensely beneficial.

For Children

Play Therapy: For young survivors, play therapy can help express emotions and reduce anxiety.

Art and Music: Creative outlets like art and music offer therapeutic benefits.

Education: Explain medical procedures to children in age-appropriate ways to reduce fear.

Conclusion

Anxiety and panic attacks are real and impactful for cancer survivors. As a society, we must continue researching ways to support survivors’ psychological and emotional needs. Let’s tailor existing approaches to meet the diverse needs of individuals and groups, ensuring that no survivor faces this journey alone.

Remember, you’re not alone—there’s strength in resilience, and hope in community. 🌟