How can I manage my endometrial cancer recurrence at age 40?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 40-year-old female who was treated for endometrial cancer two years ago, but my doctor recently mentioned signs of recurrence. Physically, I am following treatment plans, but mentally, it has been very difficult to process the situation again.

How do I cope with recurrent endometrial cancer at 40?
Are counseling or support groups usually recommended for patients dealing with recurrence?
What strategies help patients manage emotional stress during ongoing treatment?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

I am really sorry you are going through this tough time. First of all, counseling and support groups are an essential part of care, not just recommended in this situation, to manage stress and cope effectively.

Therefore, some approaches can help you cope better in this situation. The approaches are as follows:

1. Cognitive behavior therapy (a type of talking therapy where a therapist helps you to change how you think and act) from a psychologist or psychiatrist to manage worry and cognitive restructuring.

2. Support groups are also highly beneficial because people who are facing similar problems may help you in coping with uncertainty.

3. Besides this, you can do these tasks to cope with anxiety and worry:

Deep breathing exercise.
Jacobson's progressive muscle relaxation therapy (a therapeutic technique developed by Edmund Jacobson to reduce stress, anxiety, and physical tension by systematically tensing and then relaxing specific muscle groups).
Set short-term, manageable goals.
Do hobbies and social activities.

4. Focus on the present by mindfulness and think or write down a thought diary about what is in your control right now.

Keep your routines regular. Step out for morning walks early in the morning. This will give you some sense of positivity, and it is evidence-based that morning walks do some measurable changes in the body and mind.

If symptoms persist or aggravate beyond two weeks, you can be started on a low-dose SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) tablet, Escitalopram 5 mg.

Engage in social interaction. Do not limit yourself to just yourself. Do these recommended exercises and therapy sessions, or join a support group. Notify me after seven days.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.