You may feel all sorts of things after you finish treatment. Some men are relieved and feel ready to put the cancer behind them and get back to normal life. But others find it difficult to move on. Adjusting to life after cancer can take time.
For some men, the emotional impact of what they have been through only hits them after they have finished treatment. You might feel angry – for example, angry at what you have been through, or about the side effects of treatment. Or you might feel sad or worried about the future.
Follow-up appointments can also cause different emotions. You might find it reassuring to see the doctor or nurse, or you may find it stressful, particularly in the few days before your appointments.
Worries about your cancer coming back
You may worry about your cancer coming back. This is natural, and will often improve with time. There are things you can do to help manage your concerns, such as finding ways to reduce stress. Breathing exercises and listening to music can help you relax and manage stress. Some people find that it helps to share what they’re thinking with somebody else, like a friend. If you are still struggling, you can get help for stress or anxiety on the NHS – you can refer yourself directly to a psychological therapies service or ask your GP.
If you’re worried about your PSA level or have any new symptoms, speak to your doctor or nurse. If your cancer does come back, you'll be offered further treatment.
Feeling isolated
During follow-up, you might find it difficult seeing your doctor or nurse less often than when you were having treatment. You might miss their regular support and reassurance. Some men say they feel isolated and abandoned when they finish their treatment. Speak to your GP if you have any concerns, or find out who else can help.
Dealing with side effects of treatments
Some men with long-term side effects find they only notice the emotional impact of these once their cancer treatment has finished. Getting support to manage your side effects can help. Our interactive How to manage guides have lots of practical tips to help you manage side effects, including fatigue, sexual side effects, and urinary problems.
Depression and anxiety
Men with prostate cancer may get depressed before or after treatment.
Depression can cause a variety of symptoms from feelings of unhappiness and hopelessness, to losing interest in the things you usually enjoy and feeling very tearful. Many people with depression also feel anxious or worried. These feelings can impact on your life and mean that you feel constantly tired, sleep badly and have no appetite. You may also feel more angry and irritable than before.
If you notice these changes in yourself and they don't go away after a few weeks, speak to your GP, hospital doctor or nurse – there are things that can help.
Regular physical activity can help you deal with feelings of anxiety and depression. Learning ways to relax, such as yoga or meditation, might also help.
You can also talk things through with our Specialist Nurses. If you need to speak to someone immediately, ring the Samaritans.
Read about Mike and Martin’s approaches to life after treatment.