Depression after mastectomy

maiasequoia

My Sister is severely depressed and I am worried about her. She has covered up the mirrors and cries all of the time. I understand she may be grieving but what can I do to help

Denise-G

maiasequoia - did your sister just have the mastectomy? I covered my mirrors as well until I could face it.

Actually, it was a very good coping tool. Grieving the loss of a breast or breasts takes time.

When I had my mastectomy, no one wanted to allow me to grieve. I would get calls that I couldn't just sit

at home recovering, get out and do something. People meant well, but I just wanted to be alone and

gather strength for all that was facing me.

If she had the mastectomy quite some time ago, that is another story.

Shellsatthebeach

It's part of the grieving process. In time, of she is still feeling depressed she may want to seek a therapist.

Racy

I am sorry for your sister's pain. The best things you can do for her are to be available, listen when she wants to talk and show small kindnesses that she would appreciate.

rachelcarter35

I found a support group helpful. Rubbing elbows with survivor/warriors is a must.

Amica

The grieving is natural.

But in response to your query "what can I do to help?", I'm only speaking for myself here, but after my modified mastectomy what I appreciated most was someone to come over and help with practical tasks, help me clean the house, or carry out the garbage etc, tasks that I found painful afterwards.

farmerlucy

I think a visit to her PCP is in order. He/she has seen this before and beside a bit of counseling he/she can suggest meds that can help. It tough to crawl out of the hole on onesown.