Anxiety/Depression/Nausea

777

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 MBC December 2018 and have been dealing with anxiety, depression ever since. I was never an anxious person before--definintely the opposite. I'm 65 and have been trying different anxiety/anti-depressants but all give me severe nausea. Just started Effexor XR 6 days ago and have some nausea. My question--will I ever feel normal again? Yes I know there are support groups--one really didn't work for me not sure if it was because it was a non-cancer group. Just feel so hopeless some days. Have to force myself to get out of bed. Normally, an optimistic person. Will the Effexor kick in soon and I'll feel somewhat normal? My first BC was 19 years ago and compared to this it was a breeze. I try grounding methods, some medication, mindfulness. First therapist appt. in 2 weeks--seems like forever. Thank you for any comments and support.

DorothyB

I am NOT in Stage 4, but did take effexor for several months. I did not take the XR version. When are you taking the Effexor? When my pills caused a bit of nausea, I found it helpful to take them just before bedtime.

777

Thank you for responding Dorothy. It was recommended by my doctor and the pharmacist that I take the Effexor in the morning as it can cause insomnia. I may give taking them at night a try--thank you.

Simone80

I was diagnosed with stage 4 Jan '19. I don't think I will ever be back to the pre-cancer me. But I try to look at it is the new norm and try to make the best of it. You can live a long time with MBC. I have found this site to helpful and also Facebook groups for Stage 4 MBC patients.

I was have issues finding something that didn't cause nausea. I found bupropion works for me.

777

Thank you so much Simone80. I appreciate you mentioning Facebook groups. Take care.

Dancebyatree

it sometimes takes several weeks before anti depressants kick in, hang in there 777 ! I was dx stage 2B in 2001 also . prayers you feel better soon . don't let cancer take away your joy ! have you tried taking it with food? bupropion works well for me too. best wishes .

777

Thank you for responding Dancebyatree (love your name). Yes I've heard it can take weeks to kick in--wish I was a patient person. Prayers to you too and yes I take the meds with food. Take care.

roseo

Tried Paxil and Prozac briefly, but the nausea was too much for me and opted to discontinue. Exercise (swimming) has been a bit helpful. Also probiotics, (supposedly gut bacteria manufacture 95% of the body's serotonin, which affects mood).