Back to Work After Cancer
Surviving cancer is more likely today than ever before, thanks to improvements in treatments and technologies. But, how do survivors and their employers adjust to the new normal?
Many survivors report having fatigue, depression and concentration difficulties after treatment. A cancer diagnosis and treatment is stressful enough, and a return to work can be a major transition. The good news is that with planning and communication, it can be a smooth one.
WHAT THE EMPLOYEE SHOULD KNOW
Going back to the office is a step toward resuming life after cancer, but survivors should be aware of the needs they should have met before making a return.
It’s a good idea to discuss the emotions that one experiences after diagnosis and treatment. A licensed professional counselor is an option, as well as hospital social workers. This could be an ongoing process, and these persons can help prepare for a return to the workplace. They should be available to talk to when needed during the journey after cancer.
It is also important to have conversations with your medical team, including oncologists and primary care physician.
Discussions with physicians should include plans for follow-up visits, recommendations for future screenings and lifestyle changes. A cancer recurrence is one of the most common fears experienced by survivors, and these discussions can help them address that concern.
While preparing for a return to work, consider requesting reduced hours during the transition. Also, anticipate some awkward moments. Well-meaning coworkers could make the return challenging. Be prepared to handle questions and comments by planning ahead of time what you are comfortable sharing and how to be gracious when that boundary is crossed.
WHAT COWORKERS SHOULD KNOW
As cancer survivors, we realize there is a growing need for some “ground rules” on what to say to coworkers who have cancer. This is not a time to exclude or ignore these coworkers. This is a time to reach out, take in and be attentive. It’s a time to have open arms, an open heart and an open mind.
OPEN ARMS
DO extend a hand: Actions speak louder than words. Extend a hand to lessen their workload or make something in their workday easier. A smile goes a long way especially with words such as, “Please let me know if I can help.”
DON’T put pressure on them: Maybe they don’t want help. It is difficult to ask for help without feeling weak and needy. And it is also difficult to sit and watch someone else doing the work for us without feeling guilty.
OPEN HEART
DO include: Cancer survivors want to be included in all aspects of social interaction. Cancer is only one part of their life. Treat persons with cancer as you would treat anyone else. Excluding them from normal, day-to-day happenings and conversations will do them a huge disservice. Share thoughts and feelings; be open and say, “I want you to know I care.”
DON’T feel sorry for them: Most cancer survivors don’t want to adopt a “victim” mentality. Let them move forward, one step at a time, at their own pace. We all have problems to cope with, and pity rarely helps.
OPEN MIND
DO listen: Sometimes silence is the best thing to do. Be sure to provide a sympathetic ear and even a shoulder to cry on.
DON’T probe: If you are struggling with what to say, don’t probe and don’t ask questions in the middle of a workday. Most people don’t like being asked, “Are you in remission?” A response to this is very difficult to capsulate in a few sentences, and often there are many unknowns.
DON’T focus on the physical: Many people comment when someone’s hair is growing back; however, only a few agents cause hair loss. Don’t assume once cancer survivors’ hair has grown back, they are finished with their therapy and they are “back to normal.”
You are not powerless to help your coworkers when they return to work after cancer treatment. Just remember to make an effort and offer open arms, an open heart and an open mind.
Gibbs Cancer Center’s Survivorship Clinic is one of 12 community cancer centers being recognized with an Association of Community Cancer Centers’ 2011 Innovator Award. The clinic is a one-time visit for cancer survivors once they have completed treatment. Call 864-560-7050 for more information or visit gibbscancercenter.com.