Dealing with Depression
Disappointment, fatigue and loneliness are typical reactions to the experiences you have faced-and to future events, such as the anniversary of your diagnosis. In fact, sadness is a common experience for everyone, not just cancer survivors. But it's important to be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal levels of sadness and depression.
Symptoms of Depression:
- Loss of pleasure and interest in most activities.
- Changes in eating and sleeping habits.
- Nervousness or sluggishness.
- Tiredness.
- Feelings of worthlessness.
- Poor concentration.
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much.
Many survivors experience these symptoms in the years following cancer treatment, but they usually lessen with time. If these symptoms persist or affect your social relationships or ability to work, contact a professional counselor. Counselors or social workers can be located through professional organizations, such as the National
Association of Social Workers or the American Counseling Association at 1-800-347-6647. If you have suicidal thoughts, contact a suicide hotline immediately. You can call 411 for a local number, call 911 for help or check the front of your phone book for suicide prevention or hotline numbers.
