Depression 2-3 Days after Chemo

Hi!  I called this my chemo funk and I experienced it with both AC and Taxol which I did 4 treatments each of.  It does pass and I came to expect it and knew that I would get through it and the cloud would lift.  I know it sucks to be there and maybe an antidepressant or some xanax during this time would make it a little easier?  I found that I was ok the first few days after chemo because I was pumped full of steroids before treatment and as they started to get out of my system the funk would start.  I have heard that this is very common.  I had dose dense chemo (every two weeks if you aren't having it) so as I was just starting to feel good and like myself again I was ready for a new infusion.  It is doable though and you will get through it.  Picture the chemo as as a big bomb going in and blowing up the cancer cells, especially on the days when you feel blue, and you may feel a little better.   Good luck and I know other women will be along soon to share their stories. ((((((((thistlec)))))))))

When I was first dx and getting chemo, those 2-3 days afterward I was so depressed, bawling my eyes out, so upset and sad.  I think it was a combo of being newly dx-ed and sick from the AC and taxol.  Your entire body is dealing with the chemo.  It was a horrible dark place, only made worse by being alone.  But it passed and I concentrated on the chemo doing it's job, that I was in charge now, not the cancer.  I actually started, and still do, looking forward to chemo -- that it is me, my onc, and the wonderful nurses getting the job done.

And, as Virginia says, lots of ice cream, and cake.  Now is the time to spoil yourself silly.  Whatever gives you joy.

Anna - definitely not just you!

 I am certainly more emotional these days, or should I say, I express my emotions much more readily.

 For me, I think this is all to the good and overall, I realise I have spent an awful lot of time in life squashing some of my own feelings due to work necessities etc. 

I think that the chemical in chocolate, both cake or ice cream, is the cheery chemical serotonin, and it actually does lift my mood!  Give it a try regularly!

warmest hugs to all -

I just finished AC and started with Taxol 2 weeks ago and have noticed that 2-4 days after each treatment I have a self pity day.  At first I fought it and worried it may be depression, but soon realized I was having the same pattern each time.  After a good self pity day filled junk food and bad television I always wake up the next day feeling better.  I truly think it's these think the crazy drugs we're given cause our emotions to take over from time to time and just decided to let the one self pity day happen and not worry because I know the next day will be better.

Thank You all for your input.

Virginia..After I was diagnosed and going through treatment..I told everyone watch out,nothing will be held beack,If I don"t like something everyone will know !!! Never was like that.LOL

jenn....I do think you are so right,I also finished ACevery 2 weeks,then taxol and hercept.every 2 and it was 2 to 3 days after,I am down,now I seem better,until my next pity party.

nene...Oh yea I do indulge but enough is enough.I just finished chemo,waiting for rads in Nov.My Drs.also forget about your weight,for now.And I did.!!Well I didn't loose or gain so thats a plus,but I do have to loose about 20 lbs.Got up and walked today,then ate a bagel????

Well thanks again,I will be checking in,STAY WELL