Advice for my 27 y.o wife survivor who’s struggling mentally?

mt_winston

Kelsey, my wife, beat breast cancer and the words to express how proud I am of her, are difficult to find.

Now, she's essentially being placed into artificial menopause with hormone blockers, and it's affecting her psychologically. She feels down a lot, tired, and very little motivation. She simply wants another woman who has been through this to offer their advice, wisdom or to have someone to talk to who can relate…

If anyone has anything to say to her, I would love to show her the comments directly.

Thank you all dearly.

GoldensRBest

MT - 32 years ago at age 34 I was dx w/stage 2 cancer. I had very high estrogen/progesterone receptors. During chemo, I continued to have periods. Following my 6 months of treatment I had my ovaries removed which put me into instant menopause. I was also on tamoxifen, a hormone blocker for 5 years. I understand entirely how your wife feels. I would encourage her to talk about using certain antidepressants which can help w/mood and hot flashes. Gabapentine has also been shown to be effective in managing hot flashes. She needs to seek help from either her oncologist or primary care provider. Working with a therapist and/or support group can be very helpful. I’m not going to lie, despite being on an antidepressant, I had tamoxifen rage. I didn’t realize it at the time, but in retrospect, I could be a witchy wife and mother. There is no easy way around your wife’s problems but kudos to you for wanting to understand them and help her. I’m sure other forum members will add their insights. Kelsey is very lucky to have you for a husband!

mt_winston

Hi there! Thank you so much for sharing your story and your willingness to give us advice/help! I will be sure to pass along your suggestions, as of course I don't fully understand, but am trying my best to do so! I think, although it may seem obvious on the surface, that it is important for Kelsey to share what she feels with her doctors. I'm sure it all sucks, but thankfully, there are plenty of resources (and people like yourself!) that are there to help!

Also, thank you dearly for your kind words about my own self. That is very nice of you, and it does feel good to hear it!

I hope you too are feeling well, and healthy and happy!