A new normal

cancer survivorship

Cancer care

cancer survivorship

Many people who’ve undergone cancer treatment speak about the first few months after treatment as a time of profound change; not so much about going ‘back to normal’ as finding out what normal actually is now.

Further information

Contact the central customer service centre on

[email protected] or 0860 NETCARE (0860 638 2273)

Please note that the centre operates on weekdays between 08:00 and 16:00.

A new normal

It’s totally normal to feel like your life has new meaning or you view things differently now. As you begin to move through recovery, these feelings may continue.

Your new normal might mean some changes to the way you live, like transforming how you eat, or changing other behaviours like hobbies and exercise, or even your sources of support.

Wellness plans for cancer survivors

Many survivors want to find ways to reduce the chances of their cancer coming back once they have finished treatment. You may be worried about eating habits, stress levels or exposure to chemicals that may put you at risk. Many cancer survivors use this as a time to take a look at how they live and take care of themselves, and recognise this as an important new chapter and a catalyst to living a healthier life.

When you speak to your doctor about follow-up care, you can ask about creating a wellness plan – different ways you can best take care of your needs in all areas of your life. Some people find it difficult to discuss this type of thing with their doctor, but doctors are used to it and will happily help. Your doctor may also recommend referral to other healthcare professionals that you could chat to, like a nurse navigator, counsellor, social worker, or clergy member.

Some changes you might want to make

After a cancer diagnosis, you might want to make some changes to your lifestyle in order to help increase the chances of successful recovery and treatment.

Quit smoking

Research has shown that smoking can increase the chances of getting cancer again, either at the same site or at another site.

Cut down on alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol increases your chances of getting multiple types of cancers and is best avoided, or in moderation and enjoyed within guidelines.

eat well

Healthy food choices and mindful nutrition can help reduce the risk of cancer (or its recurrence), and will probably help you to feel better and more energetic from day to day. Your doctor can talk to you about any special dietary needs that you may have.

Exercise and stay active

Staying active after cancer can help lower the risk of it coming back, and research shows a correlation between physical activity and longer survival. Moderate exercise for about 30 minutes every day, or almost every day, can reduce depression and anxiety, improve your mood, enhance self-esteem, and lessen fatigue, nausea, pain, and diarrhea you may be experiencing.