Dealing with practical issues after cancer

Life can feel as if it’s on hold during cancer treatment. When treatment ends, you may find yourself having to deal with different practical issues. For example:

Financial issues 

See our Managing money page for information on:

■ Benefits and allowances that you or your family may qualify for

■ Ways to cope with the cost of cancer

Our Benefits Hub  has links to information on government supports for people affected by cancer. It also has advice on how to apply.

There are also other organisations that can help you through this stressful time:

• Citizens Information: Their staff can give very clear information about what you may be entitled to and advise you. They have offices located all around the country and can be contacted at 0761 07 4000. They also have a helpful website. 
• MABS: The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is also a very useful service if you find yourself in serious financial trouble and need help to budget and sort out your finances.  MABS will meet you to help you make a financial plan. They can be contacted at 0761 07 2000 or by email: helpline@mabs.ie. Visit their website.

Returning to work after cancer treatment

When you have finished cancer treatment, you may expect to go back to your old way of life and return to work straight away. But everyone reacts differently and some people can feel tired for a year or more after their treatment ends.

It is important to be realistic about what you can manage and to look after yourself at this time. Do not pretend that you are fine if really you are not. 

Cancer can also have a powerful emotional effect. If you have strong emotions, you might need to take a few months after your treatment has finished to adjust to what has happened. For more information, see our section on your feelings after cancer treatment.

Many people are keen to get back to work as soon as possible because it means they are getting back to ‘normal’ and that they are over their cancer. If you can, plan to return to work gradually.

Most employers will help you to start back to work part time and build up to full-time hours. 

Possible challenges you may face if you go back to work:

Fatigue (tiredness) 

If you find that going back to work is making you feel very tired, it can help to talk to your employer or human resource manager. Some people find that tiredness is mild and does not interfere with their work. Others find it has a greater impact. For example, you may find it hard to concentrate or make decisions. This can affect the quality of your work.

Our booklet Coping with Fatigue has useful tips on managing fatigue in the workplace. You can also call our Support Line on 1800 200 700 to ask for a print copy.