Though the primary war against cancer takes place in the body, battles are fought in the mind. Childhood cancer survivors can see profound and lasting mental health challenges during and after cancer treatment. While these issues can be mitigated and treated, mental health is personal and sometimes difficult to understand. 

Whether you’re a cancer survivor looking for introspective insights or a parent trying their best to support their child, knowing what to look for and what to do can make all the difference in the world.

5 Mental Health Challenges Childhood Cancer Survivors Face

Though the primary war against cancer takes place in the body, battles are fought in the mind. Childhood cancer survivors can see profound and lasting mental health challenges during and after cancer treatment. While these issues can be mitigated and treated, mental health is personal and sometimes difficult to understand. 

Whether you’re a cancer survivor looking for introspective insights or a parent trying their best to support their child, knowing what to look for and what to do can make all the difference in the world.

How to Cope With 5 Common Post-Cancer Mental Health Issues

Challenge #1 – Depression

Depression comes in different forms and severities. Most people will experience a bout of short-term depression at some point in their lives, but long-term, chronic depression persists despite otherwise good circumstances. It involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, numbness, and even anger. Depressed individuals may feel disinterested in the activities they once loved. They might feel irritable, fatigued, and worthless. Depression affects every individual differently.

What to Avoid

• Minimizing Their Feelings. Avoid phrases like:
  • “Snap out of it.”
  • “It’s all in your head.”
  • “You have so much to be happy about.”
  • “Cheer up.”
  • “Think positively.”
• Offering Unsolicited Advice
• Getting Frustrated
• Making Comparisons
  • “Other people have it worse.”

What Helps?

Sometimes, a listening ear is all you can offer – and that’s okay. It helps just to be able to talk about feelings without judgment. Gently encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist, counselor, or doctor. Different therapies and medications can make all the difference in the world. Finally, offer practical support. Depression can make simple daily tasks seem insurmountable. Offer help with laundry, meals, and chores.

Challenge #2 – Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural stress response characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear. While it’s normal to experience anxiety occasionally, chronic or excessive anxiety can interfere with daily activities and impact quality of life. Cancer survivors may feel particularly anxious about medical procedures, tests, and perceived health problems. 

Anxiety can cause irritability, stress, muscle stiffness, sleep disruptions, and trouble concentrating.

What to Avoid

Anxiety isn’t always rational. Avoid telling an anxious person it “isn’t a big deal.” Even if they logically know this, the fear often overrides logic.

What Helps?

Mindfulness and breathing techniques can help individuals work through panic attacks and anxiety-induced stress. Medication (such as beta blockers) can also help manage anxious thoughts and physical symptoms.

Challenge #3 – Post-Traumatic Stress

Though post-traumatic stress disorder is commonly associated with war and natural disasters, any traumatic event – such as surviving cancer – can trigger this response. For some, it may be temporary. Post-traumatic stress may cause intrusive thoughts, emotional outbursts, avoidance, and mood changes. 

What to Avoid

Never tell someone wrestling with post-traumatic stress to “move on.” There’s no timeline for dealing with trauma, and healing isn’t a linear process. Don’t force them to confront their trauma or talk about it.

What Helps?

PTSD is a complex condition best handled with the help of a specialist. Psychotherapy, medication, support groups, and even support animals can all be beneficial.

Challenge #4 – Body Image

Cancer and cancer treatment often involve procedures and side effects that can profoundly impact one’s outward appearance. Hair loss, weight changes, loss of muscle mass, and scars can all contribute to low self-esteem and self-image.

What to Avoid

Avoid dismissing their concerns and pain. It’s easy to say it’s “just clothes” or “just hair,” but it may feel harrowing for cancer survivors when they don’t recognize themselves.

What Helps?

Be empathetic. Ask what would make them feel more comfortable. Give genuine compliments that aren’t based on appearance!

Challenge #5 – Social Withdrawl

Cancer survivors may feel alienated from those who don’t share their experiences. At times, it may feel like no one can understand or relate to them. This, combined with the social strain of cancer treatment, leads some people to withdraw from friends and family. This self-isolation can lead to poor mental health outcomes.

What to Avoid

Don’t say “I know what you’re going through.” Unless you have survived cancer yourself, you don’t! This statement often rings hollow. Don’t force the survivor to endure large social gatherings if they don’t wish to. 

What Helps?

Connecting with other survivors can lessen the sense of loneliness and isolation. Offer a listening, unjudgmental ear. Therapy, too, may be beneficial. 

Ultimately, the mental and emotional impact of cancer doesn’t end when your child rings the bell. They may wrestle with any number of these challenges. Your job – and ours – is helping ensure them that they don’t face anything alone.