Feelings of depression are common when patients and family members are coping with cancer. It’s normal to feel sadness and grief. But, depression is a serious mood disorder. It causes symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Let your doctor know if you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks:
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood almost every day for most of the day
Feeling irritable
Feeling hopeless
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Frequent crying
Loss of motivation to do daily activities
Decreased ability to concentrate
Negative thoughts
Changes in sleep (can’t sleep, early waking, or oversleeping)
Extreme tiredness or less energy almost every day
Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions
Changes in weight or appetite
Treatment for Depression
Depression—even severe depression—can be treated. Treatment usually involves medications, psychological treatment, or a combination of both. These treatments improve depression, reduce feelings of sadness, and help you have a better quality of life.
Things You Can Do:
Try to be active and exercise, even if you don’t really feel like it.
Try not to isolate yourself; try to spend time with other people.
Try deep breathing and relaxation exercises several times a day. (For example, close your eyes, breathe deeply, focus on each body part and relax it)
Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately.
Get help. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk to someone about your depression, to ask your doctor about treatment options, or to begin treatment for depression.
Sources:
American Cancer Society, 2020. Depression.
National Institute of Mental Health, 2021. Depression.