After lymphoma treatment, many people feel nervous or worried about the cancer coming back. This is called fear of return or fear of recurrence. It’s a very common and natural feeling – whether you’ve just finished treatment or it’s been years.
You are not alone, and there are ways to cope and find support.
On this Page:
Emotional Health
Feeling scared, sad, or anxious after cancer is normal. These feelings can come and go, and may be stronger at certain times—like follow-up appointments, birthdays, or anniversaries of your diagnosis.
You might feel:
Worried about every ache or pain
Tired or moody
More emotional than usual
Like you’re waiting for bad news
These feelings don’t mean you’re weak—they show how deeply you’ve been affected by what you’ve been through.
Scanxiety (Fear Around Scans and Tests)
The stress or worry you feel before scans, blood tests, or check-ups is called scanxiety. Even when things have been going well, it can be hard to stay calm while waiting for results.
Some people find it helpful to:
Plan something nice for after the scan
Talk to a friend or support group before or after appointments
Use relaxation or breathing techniques to manage stress.
Changes in Relationships and Roles
Fear of return can also affect how you connect with people around you. You may:
Feel distant from friends or family who don’t understand
Struggle to return to your usual roles (as a parent, partner, or at work)
Worry about burdening others with your feelings
Some people feel pressure to be “back to normal,” even when they don’t feel that way inside.
It’s okay to take your time and explain what you need – or to ask for space or support when you need it.
Fear of Making Plans
Some people feel scared to plan holidays, go back to work, or say yes to long-term goals. The fear of cancer returning can make you feel unsure about the future.
This can be frustrating and sad. You might feel like you’re missing out – or feel stuck in limbo.
It can help to:
Make flexible plans that can be changed if needed
Take things one step at a time
Focus on what you can enjoy today.
Will this fear ever go away?
Many people find that their fear of the cancer coming back gets easier to manage over time. As you heal and build confidence, the worry often becomes less strong or less constant.
But this isn’t the case for everyone – and that’s okay.
If your fear doesn’t get better or is making daily life hard, it’s important to talk to your GP or specialist team. There are different supports and options that may help you feel more at ease.
Everyone’s experience with lymphoma or CLL is different. What helps one person feel calm or in control may not work the same way for someone else.
If you’re feeling very anxious or overwhelmed at any stage, please don’t go through it alone. You can contact the Lymphoma Nurse Support Line for extra support, or email the lymphoma nurses for guidance and a listening ear.
Coping Strategies
You don’t have to go through this alone. There are healthy ways to manage fear of return:
Talk about it: With a friend, counsellor, nurse, or support group
Write it down: Keeping a journal can help sort through your thoughts
Focus on what you can control: Like eating well, resting, and staying active
Practice mindfulness or meditation: Apps and podcasts can help with calming your mind
Set small goals: Achievable goals help you feel more confident and in control
Support Available in Australia
There is help available across Australia for people coping with fear of return. You can talk to:
Your GP or haematologist: They can check any symptoms and reassure you
Lymphoma Australia: Call our nurses on 1800 953 081 Monday-Friday 9am-4:30pm Eastern States time
Psychologists and counsellors: Ask your GP about a Mental Health Care Plan for Medicare-covered sessions
Online peer support groups: Connect with others who understand what you’re feeling. See link below for upcoming support groups
You're not alone
It’s okay to be scared. What you’re feeling is real and valid. Over time, fear of return often becomes easier to manage – and help is always there when you need it.
Take things one day at a time. Focus on what brings you peace, and reach out when you need support. You’ve already been through so much, and you don’t have to face this next part on your own.
