I am sorry to hear about your situation. I can understand how difficult this must be for you.
I am not sure what cancer you had when you were 21 and whether you are still being followed up. It would be worth discussing how you are feeling with your GP or your specialist if you are still being followed up by them. There maybe a support group near you for the type of cancer that you had that you could join online or in person.
Another option is to look at counselling as a way of coming to terms with the cancer and treatment you have had and moving forward.
We have a page on our website about the different types of counselling that you might find helpful to look at here
Your GP maybe able to refer you to a counsellor but you would not have a choice of who you have and there may also be a waiting list. If you wanted to have a particular type of counselling then you would have to pay for it and if this is something that you wanted to consider it would be worth trying to find the type of counselling that might suit you.
Maggie Centres offer online and face to face courses and support moving forward after cancer treatment. They also have clinical psychologists offering free help. Have a look at their details here
Maggie's also have some links and information about moving on after cancer treatment here
I hope that some of these links maybe helpful.
I do hope that you manage to speak and share how you are feeling with a health professional and you manage to find away of moving forward in your life.
If you feel that it would be helpful to chat to one of the nurses on the helpline then you are very welcome to give us a ring. Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
Hi thank you for your reply! I looked at the Maggies page online and unfortunately there isn't one near me! Which is a shame because it sounds like something I'd be interested in to help me right now.
I wonder if there if anything similar near to me? I live in Devon.
You'd think after 10 years I'd be at peace with the past! But I'm still struggling! It seems to come in waves I can be fine for months and then go backwards out of no where!
Another Charity, Macmillan Cancer Support has on online searchable directory of community services, you can follow the link below to use it and find out what is available in your area.
As Catherine mentioned, and as this is a recurring issue, it might be a good idea to talk to your GP too and find out what what sort of psychological/mental health service options are possible through the NHS.
I hope things improve for you.
Give us a ring if you want to talk anything over. Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here weekdays, 9-5 but will be closed on 2nd January.
I also get very anxious 4 years after successful treatment, still monitored every 6 months as it was very agressive. As Mcmillan told me you will be concerned until the day you die. Its a case of rationalsing it and the risk. I am viligant with my health and get most niggles checked. Its not hypocondria its common sense.. do not take notice of statistics everybodies cancer is different.
Its awful i know but face up and live your best life you deserve that. Love SMJ
