Friday, June 4, 2021

Cancer and Depression: What Causes It and What You Can Do About It

Cancer and Depression: What Causes It and What You Can Do About It 1

Cancer diagnosis can have a huge impact on patients, their families, and caregivers. Anxiety, fear, and depression are very common emotional responses to these life-changing events, and various things can cause these emotions.

Causes of depression after cancer diagnosis

After you know that you and your family have cancer, there is no “work as usual”. Many things have changed, and these changes tend to cause depression. Physical changes are often important and can affect confidence and self-esteem. It's hard not to like what you see when you look in the mirror, especially when you can't do anything. In addition to changes in body image, relationships with family and job roles can also change negatively, which can cause sadness, tension and even grief.

Cancer physical symptoms and side effects of cancer treatments such as nausea, pain, loss of appetite, sleep disorders, and fatigue can also cause depression and anxiety.

What you can do

After a cancer diagnosis, even after the cancer has been treated, you may feel pain about many changes at any time. It is important to reach out to your family, close friends, and / or support groups after a cancer diagnosis or anytime. It's never too late or too late. The more social support the cancer patient and family have, the better the patient can deal with negative emotions. According to the American Cancer Society, “Patients with high social support tend to report that their anxiety and depression are less likely to improve their quality of life.”

The patient's cancer treatment team is also a valuable resource when feelings of depression, fear, or anxiety become overwhelming. Discussing these and other issues can help patients feel more comfortable. Emotional problems can often be alleviated with support groups, drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination, but seeking help is the first step.

When you worry

Unfortunately, even the overwhelming stress and confusion after cancer diagnosis, patients and / or familiar people may not realize they are emotionally suffering until they get serious. Cancer is an emotional roller coaster, but if you observe any of the following behaviors, it is essential to contact the cancer treatment team for immediate help.