Being diagnosed with, and treated for, cancer can be an overwhelming experience.
There are a wide range of emotions experienced during the cancer journey, and each person experiences it differently. The toll of the treatments on your body, the stress of managing so many appointments and the fear of what’s to come can lead to low mood, increased worry, strain on personal relationships, and difficulty coping. Addressing these concerns is an important in pursuing your rehabilitation goals.
Resources for managing feelings of sadness or worry, or for general support
Managing Depression After Cancer Treatment
Managing Anxiety After Cancer Treatment
Managing Psychosocial and Family Distress after Cancer Treatment
Relaxation Techniques to Relieve Stress
Getting Back On Track (booklet)
Bounce Back Online – Bounce Back ® On-line is a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy based self-help program for those who want help with everyday problems such as feeling depressed, stressed or anxious. The program is comprised of modules for you to work through at your own pace. You can choose which modules are appropriate for you.
Find help managing feelings of sadness, worry or for general support
Relaxation and Visualization
This free program from Wellspring uses guided imagery to help manage stress, anxiety and pain due to a cancer diagnosis. Registration is required.
ELLICSR: Health, Wellness and Cancer Survivorship Centre – Living Well With Cancer
Psychosocial Oncology program at the Princess Margaret
Patients of the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre can can self-refer to a social worker by calling 416 946 4525, or your physician can compete a referral form. Psychiatry and Psychology require a referral from a Princess Margaret Cancer Centre doctor.
Psychosocial Oncology at Odette Cancer Centre (Sunnybrook)
Please speak to your oncologist, or the Odette Head and Neck Nurse for a referral to the psychosocial oncology program.
Getting Back on Track: Life After Treatment for Head and Neck Cancer (class, Princess Margaret)
Registration required – 416-946-2206
Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program – For adults 18 years of age or older, experiencing symptoms related to depression or an anxiety-related disorder. You can also register yourself (“self-refer”) for the program. Services may be available in a variety of languages depending on the network. Please contact your local network to learn what is available.
Laryngectomy Support – A group available over Facebook to share strategies post-laryngectomy (search the name on Facebook).
Web Whispers – An online support and information group for people with larynx and other throat cancers
Cancer Chat Canada – a free online cancer chat group
The Healing Journey – An online or in person group to manage depression, anxiety and other symptoms.
Taking Charge: Men’s Program – A free, drop-in, group for men who are patients or caregivers to discuss their experience with cancer. Offered at several Wellspring locations.
Gay Men’s Cancer Support Group – This program provides an opportunity for gay men with cancer, and their male partners, to meet with one another to address their unique experiences and challenges of a cancer diagnosis as a member of the LGBTTQ community.