There is no manual for returning to work after surviving a serious illness. The body may gradually regain strength, but the mind often lags, trying to make sense of everything that changed while the world kept moving.

For many, career ambitions that once felt urgent now seem distant or even foreign. .

Career coach Roy Ndombi of Royal Coach says this period of uncertainty is more common than people realize.

“Getting back to work after a life-changing experience can be disorienting. Many people feel pressure to bounce back immediately, but rebuilding a career after illness calls for compassion toward yourself and a fresh definition of success,” he explains.

Ndombi advises anyone preparing to re-enter the workplace to begin by aligning goals with their current capacity and choosing roles that offer flexibility, purpose, or a gentler pace.

Some survivors also need to confront fears about productivity, relevance, or possible stigma.

“Start by re-evaluating your career objectives and looking for positions you can manage comfortably,” he says.

“Seek guidance from a career coach or a human resource professional to identify strengths you can build on, and be willing to upskill, reskill, or even rebrand if necessary.”

Emotional support is equally important, and loved ones can help counter the isolation and self-doubt that often follow a major health event, all while professional counseling provides the tools for managing lingering anxiety or depression.

Financial planning should not be overlooked because medical costs, potential gaps in employment, or reduced hours can strain a budget.

Ndombi suggests working with a financial adviser or trusted mentor to review insurance coverage, update savings goals, and build a realistic plan for the transition period.

“Clear communication at work helps prevent misunderstandings and subtle stigma. Managers and colleagues may be unsure how to respond, so survivors should feel empowered to share their needs, whether that means flexible hours, regular check‑ins, or temporary workload adjustments. Employers, in turn, can create formal policies that promote openness and inclusion,” he notes.

Finding a renewed purpose can make the return to work more meaningful. Some professionals mentor colleagues facing similar challenges, while others volunteer or advocate for causes related to their health condition.

Channeling personal experience into service often deepens job satisfaction and reinforces a sense of contribution.

He advises that during this transition period, human resource teams need to approach each situation with empathy and flexibility by helping set up realistic performance targets that allow survivors to prioritize their health without derailing long-term goals, perhaps by offering remote or hybrid arrangements or phased‑in responsibilities.

Finally, celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Completing a project, delivering a successful presentation, or even finishing the first full week back on the job are victories worth acknowledging.

“Sometimes showing up is an achievement in itself,” Ndombi notes. “Recognizing those wins reminds you of your resilience and motivates you to keep moving forward.”

How to slowly ease back to work after a life-threatening illness

Author Spotlight

Leleti Jassor