Constant fear of if/when and where it will show up next

My mental health is starting to take a hit alot just recently, 

When I was 1st diagnosed with cancers I was brushed off for over a year by my GP saying it was just a mole then I finally was listened to and got diagnosed, had the op and it was removed but it did start to spread. After this I was told with it moving it could show up at some point somewhere else. I'm constantly afraid of it coming back. I've since had another mole looked at and again brushed off until I stubbornly said I want it removing off my face I don't care about a scar. Once again it was cancer even though I was told its fine its not cancer blah blah,blah.. After my last op I was told my skin cancers don't look like cancer so now not only am I scared about it being in my body from when it spread but now I'm scared that it's on my body in places I can't see and it's been looked at but they have thought islts not cancerous. 

I cant really talk to anyone because I have to be the strong one or if I do then I'm told I'm over thinking and worrying about it for no reason 

How do others manage to push the thoughts aside, I have a 3year old and 1 year old and I cant imagine ever having to explain this terrible diagnosis to them

  • Hello elle.jay

    I'm sorry to hear that you've had some ongoing issues with skin cancer and that you've struggled to feel heard by the health professionals responsible for your care. It's understandable that you're struggling with your mental health and perhaps feel overwhelmed by things. 

    We know that many people find it difficult to live with the fear of if/when a cancer diagnosis may return. It can be a struggle to find ways to reconcile what you've been through and yet still move forward with life in a positive way. We do have some information on our website about mental health and cancer that you might find useful but I'd really encourage you to talk with someone about your concerns as often this helps. It may be that you have a clinical nurse specialist that you can contact to discuss your initial concerns or perhaps there is someone at your GP surgery that you feel confident to talk with. If you have an organisation such as Maggie's in your local area then they are often a good source of support. Alternatively, you can call our team of nurses to chat things through with them. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information, and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040.  

    I do hope that you're able to access the support you need to move forward. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator