Feelings and emotions about having chemotherapy
Many people find that having cancer, needing chemotherapy treatment, and the effect that this has on their lives can sometimes make them feel anxious, afraid or depressed. Often these feelings can be triggered by something seemingly trivial, such as having to change your usual daily routine to fit in with the treatments. It may also be caused by something more obvious, such as particular side effects of the treatment, or the risk of infertility.
If you feel low or worried, for whatever reason, it is important to know that you are not alone. It is natural to have these feelings from time to time during your treatment and there are ways of dealing with them.
The section on the emotional effects of cancer describes the feelings and emotions that you may have and has advice on how to cope with them.
Getting information
You may be anxious due to worries such as: 'Are the drugs working?', 'What effects are they going to have on my body or long-term health?' and 'How am I going to cope with the side effects?'. Getting information and answers to these questions from your doctor or specialist nurse can help to reduce the anxiety.
If you don't understand the explanation, then keep asking until you do. Remember it is your right to know what is happening to your body and how your life may be affected. Most doctors and nurses are very willing to answer any questions and to keep you up-to-date on your progress.
Depression can occur due to side effects such as hair loss and tiredness. Certainly it can be discouraging if the cancer is taking time to respond to the drugs.
Your emotional well-being is as important as your physical health. Everyone needs some support during difficult times and having cancer is one of the most stressful situations you are ever likely to face. If you feel that low moods are getting the better of you, try to talk over your feelings with someone you feel close to who can be a good listener. You may also find it helpful to discuss your feelings with a professional counsellor, a spiritual leader or member of your religious faith, or a social worker. If you feel comfortable discussing personal worries with your doctor or nurse, these people can be very good at helping you to bring your feelings out into the open and can find you further help if necessary.
If you are finding it particularly difficult to overcome a period of depression, your doctor may suggest one of a number of treatments, such as a course of anti-depressant drugs. These drugs can be useful on a short-term basis to help lift your spirits and they usually have few side effects.
