Anxiety and depression after clear of cancer

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Hello there I had breast cancer 2021 had mastectomy then lymph nodes out then just had implant November 2024.  Also had to have gallbladder removed.  Had radiation 18 hercetin injections as a preventative and zolondronic acid injections need another two.  This has resulted in me loosing 5 teeth so been difficult.  As my husband died of cancer 6 years ago and my parents died of cancer and now my twin has got cancer.  Even though I am clear of cancer my anxiety and depression is getting bad tryed so many antidepressants CBT etc and have two lovely daughters and 2 grandsons but still find it hard with them around. Anybody recommend anything they have tried to help I have lots of friends but feel I can’t see them as often as I would like and everything around me seems such a big hurdle.  I should be thankful for being well as  have been given a second chance.  Thank you for your replies.

  • Hi  I see it's your first post so a warm welcome to the community.

    Navigating the post treatment rollercoaster can be very challenging at times....... but with your family history and ongoing issues....... it's just off the scale for you at the moment.

    I have been on my cancer journey for 25 years (See my story) first diagnosed in 1999 at 44 with my first type of rare incurable Non Hodgkin's Lymphomas....... then in late 2013 things kicked off when a second more aggressive Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma showed it's face so I had to have a few years significant treatment...... but incredibly I find myself being 9+ years out from my last treatment and looking to get on with life.

    I don't have the challenges you have had and are dealing with so it's hard for me to bring any first hand experience to the table but let's see if anyone looking can help better.

    Back in late 2013 I was given a few years if the treatment plan didn't work....... but it worked..... so as a family we concentrate on defining how we live....... and not letting the what if's define us.

    You may find it helpful to make a cuppa and have a look at this great paper After Treatment Finishes - Then What? by Dr Peter Harvey as it highlights the post treatment milestones.

    Talking to people ‘face to face’ can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.

    Always around to help or chat.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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  • Thank you Mike so much you are amazing what you have gone threw and lots of strength you have too. Now kettle on to read the article thank you 

  • Hi  it’s amazing what the body and mind can endure when it is backed into a corner…. Do we give in?…… or do we come out fighting?

    Do come back with your thoughts about the article ((hugs))

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge

  • I’ve found that mixing practical grounding tricks with small daily routines helps take the edge off the worry. Chats with a counsellor or a support buddy make a big difference too. Some folks I know use HHC distillate bulk as part of exploring calming wellness options, though I always check anything new with my doctor before trying it myself.

  • Hi Enndreviu….. talking does indeed help.

    Do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area or a local-ish Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and they run various support platforms……. Maggie’s was a great help for me. 

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge

  • I went to a local workshop for after cancer run by part of the mental health team which I found very helpful. I've also been using the online version of the Macmillan Hope course. I like that I can dip in and out as it suits me. I found it really beneficial. Maggie's have a Where Now course I think as well as other stuff. The hospital near me has a cancer wellbeing coordinator who signposts to various options. I think the Macmillan helpline can signpost to local services. It's different for everyone but I'm glad I tried a couple of things to help me move forward a bit.