Chemo brain after cancer: Why it happens and what helps

Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you’re there? Lost your words halfway through a sentence, or read the same email three times and still not taken it in? At some point, you might start wondering: Why is my memory worse? Is this normal? Will it get better? In this episode, Steph is joined by Rosie Grainger and Professor Nazanin Derakhshan to talk about cancer-related cognitive changes, often referred to as chemo brain. Rosie shares what it’s been like to return to work as a doctor while her brain does not feel the same and Professor Naz brings research and clinical insight to help make sense of why these changes happen, what can make them worse, and what can help. Together, they talk about the impact of cognitive changes on work, parenting, confidence, and everyday life, and why so many people end up doubting themselves when this part of recovery is not spoken about enough. Inside the episode, we talk about: what chemo brain can feel like day to day why cognitive changes can happen after cancer treatment, not only after chemotherapy how memory, focus, and mental fatigue can affect work and home life why these changes are often confused with menopause, stress, or ageing the effect on confidence, identity, and self-trust practical ways to support your brain and make everyday life feel more manageable If you’ve been wondering whether this is “just you”, this episode is a reminder that it isn’t. Useful links You can find practical tools, exercises, and further support related to this episode here: https://www.life-aftercancer.co.uk/ch... 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. Some of the research and evidence mentioned in this episode reflects the speaker’s academic and clinical work. References, practical tools, and further resources linked to this conversation can be found on the episode webpage: https://www.life-aftercancer.co.uk/ch... Connect with us Website: https://www.life-aftercancer.co.uk/ Instagram:   / life_aftercancer   LinkedIn:   / life-after-cancer   Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/prof... ​ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:57 What is chemo brain? 02:34 Rosie’s cancer experience 04:22 Common symptoms of chemo brain 10:11 Returning to work after treatment 13:04 How cognitive changes affect confidence and relationships 15:59 Why chemo brain happens 18:16 Feeling isolated and misunderstood 21:51 Workplace understanding after cancer 24:18 Does chemo brain last forever? 32:32 Acceptance without giving up 33:47 Menopause, hormones and cognitive changes 35:38 ADHD and chemo brain 38:46 Recovery and rebuilding confidence 42:20 What actually helps chemo brain? 51:58 Exercise, mindfulness and small daily changes 57:26 When to seek support 58:43 Life after treatment - quick fire reflections 01:08:20 Final thoughts