Self-care is often put on the backburner and treated as if it is some luxury, rather than the necessity it is. Much like a car that can’t run without gas and when we work ourselves ragged without taking a moment to care for ourselves, productivity is nearly impossible.
Taking the time to stop and rest is essential for mental, physical, and emotional health. This can look different for everyone, but regardless of the manner of self-care, the unifying factor is the positive impact that stepping back can have. Of course, when a cancer diagnosis is introduced to the mix, self-care becomes even more important, but can often be put even further down the list of priorities.
An article in Everyday Health, written by palliative care physician and BRCA1 previvor, Dr. Simran Malhotra, outlines just how important self-care during cancer is, and why it should be viewed as a necessity. "Self-care if not selfish; it is my self-preservation”, she shares. Many don’t realize the positive impact that self-care practices can have on health until they’re struggling. You would encourage someone drowning to grab hold of a life preserver, why not do that for yourself?
Self-care looks different for everyone. Perhaps it’s a bubble bath in a dimly lit bathroom or going for a mind-clearing run; maybe it’s sitting in your PJ’s for a day watching tv or taking up a new hobby. Maybe it is simply spending quality time with loved ones. Whatever it is that makes you feel rejuvenated, rested, or provides a moment of peace, can be self-care. Cancer takes away so much control in life and decision-making, but as Dr. Malhotra says, “unlike most of the cancer experience, what self-care looks like for you is in your control”. Self-care can thus be viewed as an opportunity to regain a semblance of control and empower those with a diagnosis to feel just a little more confident.
A few highlighted suggestions especially pertinent for those with a diagnosis include:
- Work in movement and exercise daily. Even gentle movement helps with mood, sleep and anxiety regulations. Check out CAC’s On-the-GO Guide focusing on fitness and the positive benefits.
- Give yourself permission to rest. This is about listening to your body, which is something you may grow accustomed to after a diagnosis. With that said, a mental rest is important too. Register for our January webinar on Managing Long-Term Stress for ways to rest and reset.
- Eat when you are able and eat nutritiously. Food is often described as medicine and for good reason. What you eat can impact your immune system and energy. View our recorded webinar on Balancing Cancer & Nutrition for guidance on food during treatment.
We at Cancer and Careers recognize the importance and power of self-care. The final webinar of the 2025 Balancing Work & Cancer series will focus on Self-Care: Practical Approaches at Work & Beyond. This session, presented by neuro-oncology social worker Wade Iwata, LCSW, will provide strategies for understanding the benefits of self-care, prioritizing self-care at work and in your personal life, and provide suggestions for practices that can be implemented. Don’t hesitate to sign up for our 2026 sessions, registration is now live.
If you would like more information or guidance on how to work self-care into your life when also managing cancer and employment, feel free to reach out to cancerandcareers@cew.org and we’d be happy to speak with you!