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End of Treatment and Follow-up Care

After treatment for cancer, patients may experience a variety of emotional responses that include depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, or feelings of isolation. This is normal because it can be difficult to learn to readjust to life after cancer.

Seek help if such feelings are sustained or impair normal daily functioning. A number of resources are available to help you readjust to life after cancer.

A social worker will provide counseling to help you and your family cope with the emotional rollercoaster you may be facing following your cancer treatment. You may contact one of our social workers, either at Riley or at IU, or one in your own community. Your social worker can also help you identify additional resources in your community.

Spiritual counseling may help you and your family deal with your feelings and spiritual concerns. They help you draw upon your own spiritual beliefs to provide support, strength and meaning in your life. See Riley Support Services for chaplaincy services at Riley or CompleteLife for chaplaincy services at IU.

Stress management programs help you learn coping strategies for dealing with the stress you have in your life as a result of osteosarcoma.

Vocational rehabilitation may be available in your community to help you cope with the physical and mental challenges that you may be facing at work as a cancer survivor.

Support groups for cancer patients, survivors and their families are available in many communities. These groups provide you an opportunity to express your feelings in a supportive environment. They also may help you learn coping strategies for dealing with your disease and other problems you may be facing since your diagnosis.

In many parts of the United States, you may call an Information and Referral Call Center by dialing 2-1-1 to identify local support services. You can determine if your area has a call center by visiting 211.org.