Connect to Heal: Depression and Anxiety with Cancer

Depression and Anxiety with Cancer

Depression is a disorder consisting primarily of a depressed mood and loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities. Depression is more complex than feeling sad or hopeless. A diagnosis of depression requires that at least five of the following symptoms occurred every day for at least 2 weeks;

· Persistent sad, anxious, or “numb” Feeling

· Loss of Interest or pleasure in once enjoyed hobbies and activates

· Feelings of hopelessness

· Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness

· Fatigue and loss of energy

· Difficulty concentrating remembering making decisions.

· Sleep problems

· Changes in appetite and / or weight

· Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts

· Restlessness, irritability

· Social withdrawal

· Repeated episodes of crying

Diagnosing depression in people with cancer is a challenge because many of these symptoms are side effects of cancer and/or its treatment. Many people with cancer who have depression do not talk to their doctor or nurse because they think that depression is “expected”. This is not true. Depression can and should be treated. Most cases of depression are related to the cancer experience on the whole, but depression can be related to cancer treatments.

Who is most likely to be affected by Depression?

Studies have shown that depression ( or mood Changes ) is a possible side effect of some chemotherapy drugs and other anticancer agents, and people with cancer who take these drugs are most likely to be affected.

People who receive treatment that results in low levels of hormones ( Removal or damage to ovaries or testicles) are also likely to be affected by depression. People who have a history of depression or of alcohol or drug abuse ( before the cancer diagnosis) are more prone to depression. The more unrelieved cancer related symptoms you have, the greater the risk of depression. Uncontrolled pain is one of primary contributors of depression.

Why does Depression Occur?

Depression can occur any time during cancer treatment. It is most likely to occur during times of unrelieved side effects of treatment.

How is depression managed?

If other symptoms appear to be the cause of depression, treatment to alleviate those symptoms is a priority. People with milder forms of depression may find benefit in counseling alone (without medications). Moderate or severe depression is typically managed with a combination of psychological treatment and medication (Antidepressants). Psychologic treatment may include individual psychotherapy ( Counseling to help a person change his or her negative thought patterns and behaviors). Cancer support groups may also be helpful.

Many antidepressants are available. The antidepressants used most often for people with cancer belong to a class know as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs).

Exercise, stress-relieving strategies such as deep-breathing exercises and imagery and support from family and friends can help you cope better with daily life with cancer and perhaps reduce the risk of depression.

When should I talk to my doctor about depression ?

You should talk to your doctor about the possibility of depression occurring as a side effect of your prescribed cancer treatment

Additional Sources of information

American Society of Clinical Oncology patient website

www.Cancer.net - Depression and Anxiety

Oncology Nursing Society

www.cancersymptoms.org - Depression

National Cancer Institute

www.cancer.gov - Depression

Call or meet our Counselors if you

Are unable to eat or sleep

Feel emotions that interfere with daily activities for more than a few days