Achieving work-life balance during cancer treatment: Practical tips for women.

31 October 2024
George Van Wyk

Achieving work-life balance during cancer treatment:
Practical tips for women.

Balancing work and personal life while undergoing cancer treatment can be a daunting challenge. The demands of medical care, side effects from treatment, and day-to-day responsibilities often feel overwhelming. However, with some thoughtful planning and support, it’s possible to navigate this period with less stress. Here are some practical tips for maintaining work-life balance while managing cancer treatment.

1. Have Open Conversations with Your Employer

It’s important to be upfront with your employer about your diagnosis and treatment plan. Clear communication allows you to work out accommodations such as flexible hours, remote working options, or temporary changes to your workload. Make sure you understand your rights and the benefits available to you.

2. Set Manageable Work Goals

As you undergo treatment, it’s vital to recognize that your energy levels will likely change. Rather than trying to maintain your usual pace, focus on setting realistic work goals. Prioritize essential tasks and delegate non-urgent projects where possible. Allow yourself to take breaks when needed, and don’t be afraid to lower your expectations temporarily. Self-compassion is critical during this time.

3. Rely on Your Support Network

Lean on the people around you for support, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues. Ask for help with daily tasks, childcare, or transportation to medical appointments. At work, identify someone who can serve as a point of contact to manage updates for your team. Having a reliable support network can help reduce the stress of trying to balance everything on your own.

4. Organize Your Time Wisely

Good time management can help make the juggling act of cancer treatment and everyday life more manageable. Plan your schedule carefully, allocating time for treatments, rest, and essential work tasks. Tools like planners or digital calendars can keep you on track, while setting time aside for short breaks will help combat fatigue. Make health and well-being your top priorities as you manage your time.

5. Explore Financial Assistance Options

The financial burden of cancer treatment can add extra stress, so it’s important to seek out financial assistance if needed. Look into programs that provide support for medical bills, travel, or household expenses. Many cancer-specific organizations offer grants or help with daily costs. If you have comprehensive cancer insurance, be sure to understand what’s covered to maximize your benefits.

6. Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is an essential part of managing cancer treatment. Taking time to relax and engage in activities that bring you joy can help improve your mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s light exercise, meditation, or simply resting, integrating self-care into your routine will help you cope with the challenges of treatment. Prioritizing your own needs is critical for maintaining balance.

7. Seek Professional Support When Needed

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, and professional support can be invaluable. Speaking with a therapist, counsellor, or joining a cancer support group can offer emotional relief and guidance. Many workplaces provide Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that include counselling for employees dealing with health issues. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if it can lighten your emotional load.

Finding balance between work and personal life during cancer treatment is not easy, but it is achievable with thoughtful strategies and a strong support system. Open communication with your employer, time management, and self-care are essential components in maintaining that balance. Above all, remember that your health should always come first, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical/financial advice. Please consult with a healthcare/financial professional for personalised guidance.

References

www.personatalent.com. (2023, November 20). Work-Life Balance: Why It’s Important And How To Achieve It: https://www.personatalent.com/productivity/how-to-achieve-work-life-balance/

www.fastercapital.com. (2024, June 18). Balance: Finding Balance in Life with Daily Factors: https://fastercapital.com/content/Balance–Finding-Balance-in-Life-with-Daily-Factors.html

www.percihealth.com. (2024, January 29). 7 tips for working during cancer treatment: https://www.percihealth.com/articles/tips-for-working-with-cancer

www.fieldengineer.com. The Importance of Achieving Work-Life Balance: Why It Matters: https://www.fieldengineer.com/article/work-life-balance/

www.markssattin.co.uk. (2024, January 25). How employers can support people living with cancer in the workplace: https://www.markssattin.co.uk/general/2024-1/how-employers-can-support-people-living-with-cancer

www.verywellmind.com. (2023, October 31). Why Work-Life Balance Is So Important—and How to Nail It: https://www.verywellmind.com/why-work-life-balance-is-so-important-8374683

www.cancerous.eu. (2024, March 27). Managing Work And Other Responsibilities During Cancer Treatment: https://cancerous.eu/managing-work-and-other-responsibilities-during-cancer-treatment.html

www.cxbladder.com. (2022, March 15). Tips for Balancing Cancer and Work: https://cxbladder.com/row/blog/tips-for-balancing-cancer-and-work/

www.americanlifefund.com. (2023, January 23). Working During Chemo: Tips & Strategies: https://www.americanlifefund.com/cancer/treatment/chemo/work/

www.corporatewellnessmagazine.com. The Benefits of Workplace Wellness Programs for Cancer Survivors: https://www.corporatewellnessmagazine.com/article/the-benefits-of-workplace-wellness-programs-for-cancer-survivors