Hi
My dad has been diagosed with APL leukemia in the past two weeks but struggled with his mental health before this with MH medication not working and brain scans/tests not coming up with anything. Could his mental health issues be due to the leukemia?? We have no other ideas otherwise! Thanks.
Hello SLJay
Thanks for getting in touch with us and welcome to the Online Community. I’m Debbie, one of the cancer information nurse specialists. I am sorry to hear that your dad has been diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL leukaemia) and can understand this must have been a shock for you. We have information about APL leukaemia and its treatment.
A diagnosis of cancer can be very overwhelming and we have information about what happens after diagnosis. Although it is very common for people with cancer to have anxiety or depression or other wellbeing issues, it can be difficult to know whether the leukaemia is causing them. You don’t mention which kind of mental health issues your dad has been struggling with, and it might be helpful to call our support line. Then you can talk to one of the nurses so that we can get a better picture of his situation. It might also be helpful to look at our information about how to talk to someone about cancer.
It is natural to feel anxious and stressed during and after cancer treatment. Supporting your dad’s general wellbeing can be very beneficial in helping him to cope with difficult times and there are various people who can help. Your dad’s GP can support him with his mental wellbeing. His treatment team at the hospital is also in a good position to support him with his mental health and can refer him to a psychological support team. This can sometimes take a while to organise.
Here at Macmillan, we offer a mental wellbeing assessment through a partnership with BUPA. After the assessment, up to 4 sessions of free cancer counselling can be offered if it is appropriate. Your dad might benefit from this kind of support at the moment.
You may like to look at our information on cancer and your emotions, which describes the different emotions and reactions that people with cancer might have. Your dad could also listen to these audio guides for mental wellbeing or try breathing exercises to see if they help.
Some cancer support centres offer relaxation classes or complementary therapies. You can see if there is anything in your area or look at online resources here.
You are welcome to call us on the Macmillan Support Line and speak to one of us about your dad’s particular situation. Your dad is also welcome to call. We often find that it is easier to talk things though over the phone.
I hope that your dad is able to get the mental wellbeing support that he needs at this time. You might also find it helpful to join our family and friends forum to connect with other people in the similar situation and get support for yourself.
With best wishes to you and your dad.
Debbie
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
To speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts, phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am to 8pm) or email us.
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