Anxiety

needtotalk
needtotalk Member Posts: 59
edited June 2014 in ILC (Invasive Lobular Carcinoma)
Anxiety
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  • needtotalk
    needtotalk Member Posts: 59
    edited February 2008

    I was diagnosed January 16th.  To say the least I was numbed by the experience.  But about 6 months ago, I had alot of anxiety with my son (we thought he was sick) and I had to go on antidepressants to cope with my anxiety over that.  Anyway, time has passed and we feel he is all right, but then I got diagnosed.  I feel so glad that I was on these antidepressants because they manage my anxiety over my breast cancer.  I am not trying to push antidepressants on anyone, but I find the worst thing with Breast cancer is not so much the disease as it is the fear and the anxiety.  I don't want to be ruining every day being irritable with my kids and yelling at my husband because I am walking around filled with anxiety.  Everyone wants to be diagnosed early, but the problem with that is that so many more days are lived in fear.  We could all be survivors and ruin every one of those days.  Anyway, I don't know if this will help anyone, but the antidepressants have kept alot of my fear and anxiety at bay, but still allowed me to concentrate fully on the disease.  I still have to take an Ativan to get through my 'test results' meetings, but day to day they have really helped me without numbing me to my situation.  I still cry, but I'm not immobilized by terror.  I hope this helps anyone who is on the fence about going on to antidepressants during this really hard time.  Love to you all.

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  • Solano
    Solano Member Posts: 8
    edited February 2008

    Dear NTT:

    I was biopsied on Jan 3 and got my test results on Jan 8. Since then it has been a whirlwind and now I find myself 5 days post op. It is so overwhelming that it would be easy to give in to anxiety and depression. I've been on Effexor for about 5 years, so maybe that contributed to my sense of calm, but I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that both my mother and my older sister have been through this before. My sister had a pretty serious diagnosis with positive nodes, etc. She is 10 years post dx and she's doing great! My mom is 7 years post dx and she's great as well. Since their diagnoses my family has been very active in the Komen races and other cancer recovery groups. It's awesome to see the number of women who have survived this - and you can too! Keep up the faith, calm down, talk to survivors, and remember that cancer does not equal a death sentence.

    Rosemary

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  • needtotalk
    needtotalk Member Posts: 59
    edited February 2008

    It sounds like you have a fantastic support system.  Just being around your mom and sister would give you a great deal of optimism as it does me and I don't even know them.  You are absolutely right, it does not mean a death sentence.  By the way, what is the Komen races?

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  • paige-allyson
    paige-allyson Member Posts: 781
    edited February 2008

    NTT-

    My experience was very similar. I had terrible anxiety and depression following my bc diagnosis. I wanted to make the most of every day and I was lucky if I could have a good hour given how I felt. I finally gave in and started an antidepressant (Lexapro in my case). It totally turned things around for me. I still am concerned about the bc and still don't know how my particular "journey" will turn out, but this doesn't dominate my mind anymore. I think this is a good message to put out there for other women who may be struggling with the same thing. I was reluctant to try an antidepressant and am grateful that I finally got to the point of being willing to try anything. I am also glad I went to a therapist right after being diagnosed and that she didn't push me about medications right away but just suggested them. If she'd been too quick to push I think I might not have stuck with her and finally decided to give medication a try. Glad you are doing better and on the road to healing. Allyson

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  • Solano
    Solano Member Posts: 8
    edited February 2008

    NTT - the Komen races are called Race For The Cure. They were founded by Nancy Brinker in honor of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died. They raise money for breast cancer research and to support breast cancer survivors and advocates. Last year in Dallas, there were over 36000 participants in our race alone. It is absolutely awesome to see that many people; men, women, children, and even dogs! out to support us. If the power of that support could be harnessed, we'd all be cured today! So, having participated in that for 10 years now - well, I know how uplifting and powerful the human soul can be - I just never thought I'd need it myself.

    Take whatever medicine you need to help get you through the day, but also talk to people who are where you are or who have been there, too. When I found out I'd have to go back for a second surgery I was devastated - and my sister was right there for me without even having to reach out. Find a support group - even if you're not the support group type - it helps to know that you are not alone.

    Rosemary

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  • needtotalk
    needtotalk Member Posts: 59
    edited February 2008

    Hi Rosemary.  Thanks for your reply.  I am, as well a runner.  Half marathons and such.  We have a run here in Ottawa Canada called Run for the Cure.  Like you, I never thought I would be one of the ones we were running for.  I do have a great husband (who has become even greater since I was diagnosed) and two great kids.  I will be finding a support group, because even though I have alot of support around me - I don't have anyone who is going through what I am.  Except of course, this forum.  Which I must say, has been a God send.  Thank you for your reply.  Love and good feelings.

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