Talk To Me: I'm anxious about returning to work post cancer treatment 

Psychologist Caroline Martin is here to answer your questions on whatever issues you are dealing with in life, from work pressure and stress to loneliness and grief

It is important to take time to feel a renewed sense of safety before returning to work.

I am about to return to work after a three-month absence due to cancer treatment. While my doctor has given me the all-clear, my energy levels are still low and I’m worried I won’t be able to keep up. The HR department has suggested a phased return which sounds like a good idea but I’m still anxious about what lies ahead.

It is bittersweet when you are given the ‘all-clear’ to return to work following cancer treatment or during treatment. It’s super news that physically you’re on the right track but what about all that underlying fear and anxiety? While medically you may have met the criteria to return to work, in reality there may be some psychological issues outstanding and you may feel somewhat abandoned. It’s wise to pause and consider how you are feeling.