Good day, I have had extremely low moods and high anxiety since having my 12 sessions of chemo which finished 6 september. I'm wondering if anyone has experienced the same and if so, how long before these side effects reduced?
I know all cases are individual but it would just help to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I have never suffered from depression and/or anxiety and it has just knocked me for six.
I hope to hear from someone soon, many thanks.
Hi Quakers
Thanks for getting in touch. My name is Gemma and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
Sorry to read that you are suffering from low mood and anxiety after your chemotherapy treatment.
It is common to have many different emotions during and after cancer treatments, Anxiety can be very frightening and exhausting.
You may be anxious or frightened about whether treatments will work and what will happen in the future. This can be one of the hardest things to cope with. It can help to try to focus on things you can control. It can also help to talk about your feelings.
We would suggest reaching out and talking to your GP or Clinical team.
The healthcare professionals caring for you and who know your situation can also be a good source of support. They will be able to tell you about other types of support at the hospital, such as a psychologist or counselling service.
You may find it helpful to contact Anxiety UK. You may also find that it helps to join a support group. Macmillan also offer some practical help through our HOPE courses. They are online courses which help you develop coping strategies and help you to move forward after treatment.
We also offer through Bupa up to 4 free remotely delivered counselling sessions for people struggling emotionally because they are living with cancer. It is helpful to use this service after speaking to your GP or consultant as it might help you understand your feelings and talk about them.
Also, remember you are only a couple of months post-chemotherapy so tiredness as a result of your treatment can feel frustrating, it can affect you mentally, physically and emotionally.
Most importantly, you feel you are struggling, and this will impact you both physically and mentally. It is normal to have these feelings sometimes but if they go on for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor or nurse.
Here is some more information about cancer and mental health support.
Suicidal feelings
If you have any thoughts about self-harm or suicide, you should contact your GP or specialist nurse straight away. Or go to your local Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. You can also call Samaritans on the free, 24-hour helpline at 116 123.
Macmillan is also here to support you. If you would like to talk, you can do the following:
I hope this information is useful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in contact by email, webchat or phone, if you need further information or support
Best Wishes
Gemma
Macmillan Information Nurse Specialist
Ref -GeS/AP
