Dealing with Symptoms - Depression

Fatigue | Eating Problems | Nausea | Hair Loss | Sore Mouth and Throat | Dry Mouth | Sleep Disturbances | Bowel Problems | Anxiety | Depression | Breathing Difficulties

Most people that are diagnosed with cancer suffer some degree of depression immediately after diagnosis and often for months after they’ve learned they have cancer.  Though a cancer diagnosis isn’t necessarily a death sentence these days, many individuals see it that way and slip into a deep funk. 

Depression can be counterproductive to fighting cancer.  Facts show that a positive attitude is important during treatment for mesothelioma or any other disease, and often, a good outlook results in a longer life.

If you’re depression keeps you from getting out of bed in the morning, seeing friends and family, or taking all the steps necessary to fight your disease, it’s time to seek professional help.  There are many safe medications used to fight depression which your doctor may prescribe it they don’t interfere with your other medications or treatments. 

If medication is not the answer, seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist might help.  Many cancer patients note that talking about their disease and its eventual outcome with someone other than a family member helps them to face reality - free of depression or anxiety.  If you’re a particularly religious person, you may want to consider speaking with a clergy member as well.