Receiving a cancer diagnosis is stressful for anyone, but when you already have mental health challenges, there may be times when it feels like too much to handle. You deserve quality care for both your cancer and your mental health.
If you have depression, you might notice your symptoms may get worse during cancer treatment. You may feel more hopeless than usual, have less energy even beyond what chemo normally causes, or lose interest in things you used to enjoy. Sleep problems may tend to worsen, as well as trouble eating, which can make treatment harder.
If you deal with anxiety, cancer can intensify those feelings. You might feel panicked about treatments, worry constantly about test results, or feel overwhelmed by all the medical appointments. Every ache or pain might make you think the worst, and you might find yourself calling your doctor’s office frequently or going to the emergency room when you feel scared.
The important thing to know is that mental health and cancer affect each other. When your mental health isn’t managed well, it can make cancer treatment harder. That’s why it’s so important to get help for both.
Many people hesitate to tell their cancer team about their mental health concerns. You might worry that your doctors will think you can’t handle treatment, or that it will somehow hurt your cancer care. But the opposite is true. When your doctors know about all your health concerns, they can give you better care overall.
Counseling can also be incredibly helpful during this time. A therapist who understands both cancer and mental health can teach you ways to cope with fears about cancer while also managing your existing mental health symptoms. Support groups with other cancer patients who have mental health conditions can also help you feel less alone.
Remember that asking for help with any symptoms you may be feeling during cancer treatment isn’t a sign of weakness. Managing both conditions takes incredible strength. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking your cancer medications or going to treatment appointments.
Everyone’s journey is different. Some people find that getting through cancer treatment makes them feel stronger and more confident about managing their mental health. Others discover new ways to cope that help with both conditions. The key is getting the support you need for both.
It’s okay to have bad days. It’s okay to feel scared, sad, or angry. It’s okay to need help. What matters most is that you keep communicating with your healthcare team and accept the support that’s available to you.
At Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, we understand that cancer affects your whole life, including your mental health. Our team is here to support all aspects of your well-being during treatment. If you have questions about managing mental health concerns during cancer care, or if you need help connecting with mental health resources, do not hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you through every part of your cancer journey.