Anxiety and Depression
A cancer diagnosis can be isolating, stressful, even traumatic. Depression and anxiety are common among people undergoing treatment for cancer and are often undertreated. Chemotherapy, along with drugs such as steroids that may be part of your regimen, may affect your mood. Plus, chemotherapy-induced symptoms, including fatigue, pain and sleep problems, can contribute to mood disorders. It’s a two-way street: Feeling depressed or anxious may make these symptoms worse. Work with your cancer care team to break the cycle. Ask for help managing the stresses of your cancer treatment, which in turn can help you maintain the healthy lifestyle behaviors that will nurture emotional resilience through your cancer journey. Learn more about resources for emotional support for people with cancer.
