Supporting Survivors in Queens, NYC, and Beyond

The journey after cancer treatment can be as overwhelming as the diagnosis itself. For many cancer survivors, mental health becomes a critical but overlooked aspect of recovery. Top search queries like “life after cancer,” “cancer survivor mental health,” “post-treatment cancer care,” “support after cancer,” and “coping with cancer remission” reflect the urgent need for guidance. For those living in New York City, particularly Queens, organizations like SHAREing & CAREing are here to help survivors, families, and caregivers navigate this complex new chapter.

Understanding the Emotional Whiplash of Cancer Remission

Finishing treatment should bring relief—but for many survivors in Queens and across NYC, the end of active care can be disorienting. Suddenly, regular appointments stop, medical teams pull back, and friends expect celebration. Yet survivors often report feeling numb, vulnerable, or even abandoned.

This emotional “whiplash” is common. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) explains that cancer survivors may feel a loss of security after treatment and need time to process what they’ve been through. These feelings are normal—and they deserve attention and care.

If this sounds familiar, don’t suffer in silence. Consider speaking with a counselor or joining a support group through SHAREing & CAREing to make sense of your post-treatment emotions.

Managing the Fear of Cancer Recurrence with Mindfulness and Screenings

Fear of recurrence is one of the top emotional challenges survivors face. It’s a common and persistent worry—even years after remission. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, nearly 30-70% of survivors experience high levels of anxiety about recurrence.

In New York City, where access to world-class cancer care is available, staying proactive is key. Schedule routine cancer screenings and talk to your provider about ongoing surveillance. You can also read our guide to screenings to find out when and how to get screened based on your cancer history.

In addition, tools like mindfulness, yoga, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have proven effective at reducing recurrence-related anxiety. SHAREing & CAREing offers reminder emails and community-based resources to help you stay on track.

Cancer Survivor’s Guilt: Why Do I Feel This Way?

Many survivors silently ask: Why me? Why did I survive when others didn’t? This is called survivor’s guilt, and it’s a common psychological response in cancer recovery.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, survivors may experience guilt related to others who died, or because they feel they haven’t “earned” their remission.

SHAREing & CAREing’s individual counseling can help survivors in Queens and the NYC area process these feelings and reframe their experience with compassion and gratitude—without shame.

Redefining Identity After Cancer: Rebuilding Your Sense of Self 

Cancer changes lives—but not always in visible ways. Survivors often struggle with body image, self-worth, and their role in family or society. A once-career-driven individual may now crave a slower pace. Someone who once felt invincible may now feel fragile.

The National Cancer Institute recognizes this identity shift as a key part of post-treatment adjustment. You are not who you were before cancer—and that’s okay.

Take time to explore what you value now. Try journaling, meditative walks through Queens parks, or joining a wellness workshop through SHAREing & CAREing. Give yourself permission to evolve.

Finding Ongoing Cancer Support in a “Post-Treatment” World

Even after treatment ends, emotional healing continues. That’s why a strong support system is essential. If you’re in New York City, you’re not alone—resources are here to help.

• Therapy: Consider free individual or group counseling through SHAREing & CAREing.
• Survivor Groups: Connect with others who “get it.” The comfort of shared experience can be deeply healing.
• Creative Expression: Art, music, and writing help externalize complex emotions.
• Movement: Gentle yoga, stretching, or walking can reconnect you to your body in a positive way.

If you or your loved one needs support, reach out today. SHAREing & CAREing offers free emotional support, survivorship counseling, and community health services to residents of Queens and the greater NYC area. Don’t wait—contact us or refer someone in need to begin healing.

Sources

• “Emotions and Cancer”, National Cancer Institute, 2025
• “Fear of Cancer Recurrence: A Model Examination of Physical Symptoms, Emotional Distress, and Health Behavior Change”, American Society of Clinical Oncology, 2019
• “When and Who Should Get Screened for Cancer”, SHAREing & CAREing, 2023
• “Survivor guilt: The secret burden of cancer survivorship”, American Society of Clinical Oncology, 2016
• “Life After Cancer Treatment”, National Cancer Institute, 2025