I stopped using opioids and benzos 1 and 2 years ago after 40yrs. I have PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) which is essentially anhedonia with anxiety. I cannot tolerate SSRIs/SNRIs but found the codeine I was given after biopsy instantly lifted symptoms. I was diagnosed on 30Dec and have picked up again, allbeit, in a relatively minor way since. Does anyone else have dual-diagnosis plus cancer issues?
Hi KeithL and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your ongoing challenges.
I have never had to deal with the issues you describe but I know from experience having been on my cancer journey for over 25 years with two very rare, hard to treat types of Non Hodgkin’s Lymphomas (one incurable) that navigating this journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but talking with and getting support from people who have walked or are walking the ‘exact same' journey can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… but you don’t say what type of cancer you have If you care to have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from members who are navigating the exact same journey.
You can tell me your cancer type and I can put up a link to the group(s) or just a look through the LIST above and once you find the support group for your cancer type....... click on the link and when the group page opens you will see a [Black - Click to Join - Banner] at the bottom of the page, click in this box and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [+ Create new post] or [+] in the top right of the group page.
The Macmillan Support Line is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… this service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
