Finding a New Normal At Work After Cancer
If you were employed when you were diagnosed with cancer, you may or may not have taken a break from your job while you were undergoing cancer treatments. You may have decided that you were able to keep working and you wanted to keep at it because it was a welcome distraction from dealing with your cancer.
Maybe you decided to take a leave of absence from work while being treated, or you quit your job entirely. Cancer treatment involves regular visits with the oncologist and often leaves patients feeling tired, physically weak, and mentally foggy. For some, taking a break is the best option.
If you stopped working during cancer treatment and are ready to go back to work now that you're a cancer survivor, you may not be sure how to proceed. If you’re ready to return to your previous job, how much should you share?
If you’re ready to find a new job and re-enter the workplace, you may be facing some different questions, such as:
- Has your cancer journey changed your idea about the type of job you want?
- Have you had experiences during your cancer journey that may make you particularly suited to a particular job?
- Should you look for a full-time job or ease back into work with a part-time position?
- Should you tell employers about your cancer diagnosis?
Whether you are returning to your former job or pursuing a fresh start, don’t feel obligated to rush the process. Be gentle with yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask others to be patient with you as you find and settle into your new normal.
