Having a Hard Time after Chemo

Options
stef58
stef58 Member Posts: 288
edited June 2014 in Life After Breast Cancer

Please help for anyone reading this. Last night I had major depression hit. Still here today. I seem to have lost it last night. I do not know how to proceed with my life and what the meaning of the last 6 months have been. I got done with chemo on Oct. 26th, I thought I was coping very well except for the hair issue. Enjoying life and thanking God for all I have. Last night I got to wondering if life will ever be the same or near the same for me. The rest of my family has moved on with there life and are not worrying about me. I have a great family and support network. Do I need to see a professional or what. need advice.

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • Gillkath
    Gillkath Member Posts: 149
    edited November 2009

    Hi there,

    For me, finishing my treatment and trying to pick up the pieces of my life has been the hardest and most difficult part of having been diagnosed with breast cancer.  After my surgeries and chemo were finished, I had to continue living my life as a changed person ..... to be a friend, wife, mother, daughter, friend, coworker, even I though I was a different person than I was before the cancer.  It has taken me a while to get "there" .... but today, almost 2 1/2 years later, I can recognize the slow, steady signs of healing.  I still have my days, but strive to not let my cancer rule my whole life.  I have  joined support groups, and I have volunteered in my community by counseling newly diagnosed cancer patients in concert with my local hospital.

    I would definitely start by seeking out any breast cancer support groups in your area.  Every one of the women there can totally understand and relate to how you are feeling.

    Best wishes,

    Laurie

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Sierra
    Sierra Member Posts: 1,638
    edited November 2009

    Hello:

    Many people after all TX

    suffer from depression

    I did, and so.. went for counselling

    and some anti deps for a spell of time

    Today, at near 10 yrs out I still get

    a tad of depression for whatever

    the reason

    Try to get some counselling, talk to the sisters

    and if needed, meds

    Not unusual

    My best to you!

    Hugs,Sierra

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • lovemyfamilysomuch
    lovemyfamilysomuch Member Posts: 1,585
    edited November 2009

    I send you support and love.  I think it is very natural to feel down after all you have been through.  Don't be afriad to see a good therapist and consider meds for depression.  Your body has been through so much and your heart and mind have too.  Take good care of yourself, sweetie, we care!!!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • abbadoodles
    abbadoodles Member Posts: 2,618
    edited November 2009

    Don't wait to seek professional, caring help.  Your feelings are not at all unusual.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • lovemyfamilysomuch
    lovemyfamilysomuch Member Posts: 1,585
    edited November 2009

    Stef, how are you doing today?

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • stef58
    stef58 Member Posts: 288
    edited November 2009

    thanks Everyone for all the support. I am feeling better today. I am thinking about joining a support group if i can find one in my very rural area. It helps to just write this stuff down and get some feedback from other. I am trying to figure out what triggered the depression. i have some of these moments but not very often, but when I do they really sink in for a couple of days then go away. i think that being done and then uncertain future really scares me. Hugs to all dianne

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Sierra
    Sierra Member Posts: 1,638
    edited November 2009

    Good for you Dianne

    best and good idea

    to keep a diary

    and also place some nice relaxing tapes

    or music

    Hugs, Sierra

    not easy I know

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • iodine
    iodine Member Posts: 4,289
    edited November 2009

    Hi, I believe that after treatment is when we finally have the "time" not taken with appts and meds, to address the fact that we have dodged a Huge bullet.  we can then begin to address those feelings that we've not had a chance to take out and look at.

    I totally agree with counseling and meds if needed---they are best done together.  And not really by a psychiatrist, you are not mentally ill, you will do better with a psychologist or LCSW (social worker who counsels) and your pcp or onc can write scrips you may need.

    You are certainly not alone in this feeling and if you can not find a local group, look for one in a nearby town.  It's worth the drive to see if you and the group fit together.  I drove 38 mi one way to counseling and it was worth every bit of it.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories