Episode 08
How cancer can change what matters to you: Understanding post-traumatic growth
What is post-traumatic growth, and can positive change emerge from a cancer diagnosis without dismissing the challenges that come with it?
In this episode, Steph is joined by Professor Nazanin Derakhshan, Professor of Experimental Psychopathology, and Gill McGuire, who was diagnosed with stage three rectal cancer in 2020, to discuss post-traumatic growth and how cancer can change our priorities, perspective, identity and outlook on life.
Post-traumatic growth describes the positive changes that can emerge following a traumatic experience. After cancer, this might look like rethinking what matters most, changing career direction, prioritising relationships, appreciating life differently or finding a renewed sense of purpose. Importantly, growth does not mean the experience was positive, and it can exist alongside fear, uncertainty and ongoing challenges.
Gill shares how cancer led her to reassess her relationship with work, spend more time with her family and become more intentional about how she spends her time. Drawing on both research and clinical practice, Naz explains what post-traumatic growth is, why growth and struggle often exist side by side, and how reflection, connection and small changes can support wellbeing after cancer treatment.
In this episode we talk about:
- What post-traumatic growth means after cancer
- How cancer can change your priorities, perspective and identity
- Why growth and difficult emotions can exist at the same time
- Returning to work and rethinking what matters
- Why there is no timeline for moving forward after treatment
- The role of reflection, connection and trying new things
- Why taking the pressure off yourself can help
- Small practical ways to support wellbeing after cancer
Whether you're finding your way after cancer or questioning what matters now, this episode offers practical ideas, reassurance and insights into moving forward.
Useful Links
How to build resilience post cancer - Life after Cancer
Post traumatic growth - Trauma Research UK
Using visualisation to write your post cancer story - Life after Cancer
Finding your cancer tribe - Life after Cancer
Disclaimer
The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health or notice any new or worsening symptoms, please contact your GP or your medical team.
Statements made by Gill are based on her personal experience and are anecdotal.
Some of the research and evidence mentioned in this episode reflects the speaker’s academic and clinical work
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This podcast shares experiences and perspectives on life after cancer.
It is not medical advice and cannot replace support from your healthcare team.
Some conversations may bring up strong feelings. If you need additional support,
consider reaching out to someone you trust, your GP, or your oncology team.
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our 6 week programme at life-aftercancer.co.uk.