Is it my fault if my cancer treatment did not work?

No. It is not your fault if your cancer treatment did not work.

It is normal for people with advanced cancer to wonder if they did anything to add to their situation. Some blame themselves for lifestyle choices, feel guilty that treatment did not work, or regret waiting to see a doctor. But it is important to remember this: the treatment failed you. You did not fail the treatment. We cannot know why cancer can be controlled in some people and not in others.

Feeling guilty will not help, and it can even stop you from moving forward with life plans or connecting with others. Try to let go of any mistakes you think you made, focus on things worthy of your time and energy, look at what you can control, and forgive yourself. If these feelings are hard to carry, a counselor or support group can help, and your health care team can connect you with someone to talk to.