Emotional
Your Emotions | Dealing With Stress and Anxiety | Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder |
Dealing With Depression| Attending a Support Group
Dealing with Depression
Disappointment, fatigue and loneliness are typical reactions to the experiences you have faced. Future events, such as the anniversary of your diagnosis can also trigger these feelings. While sadness is an emotion everyone experiences from time to time, it's important 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 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 800-347-6647. If you have suicidal thoughts, contact a suicide hotline immediately.