Physical changes after cancer treatment and your feelings

Macmillan Cancer Support Medical Reference

Cancer and its treatment can cause a number of different changes to your body. These changes can impact on how you feel about yourself and this in turn can affect your emotions.

Physical changes can cause people to lose confidence following their treatment. They may be afraid of how others will respond to the difference in their appearance or speech. Some people adapt well to physical changes over time. However, others can become anxious, less confident or depressed. They can withdraw from relationships and from social activities they enjoy.

The effect on a person is not always related to the size, severity or visibility of the change. For example, a small hidden scar can still affect a person’s mood and confidence.

It can be easy to focus on change in a negative way. But remember that you can take control and find ways and people to help you adapt. Sometimes this starts as you begin to look after yourself again, see or touch the affected area or socialise with family and friends. There are various things which can help at different times and in different situations, so having a range of approaches is useful.

For more information about dealing with physical effects after cancer treatment, and further support to deal with the practical and emotional effects of cancer, visit Macmillan Cancer Support’s website.