Cancer-related depression affects one in five patients (National Cancer Institute). Depression can also affect caregivers. In fact, “a conservative estimate reports that 20% of family caregivers suffer from depression, twice the rate of the general population” (Family Caregiver Alliance).

“It is very common for those diagnosed with cancer, as well as caregivers, to experience symptoms of depression after a cancer diagnosis,” Miki Biggers, LCSW, OSW-C, Director of Social Work Services said. “Sometimes, however, these responses can be overwhelming and affect one's ability to function in daily life. At times, people feel they are sad and tearful more days than not, don't want to talk to others when they call, and find they do not like leaving the home. Sometimes, people even have thoughts of ending their life as they feel they are a burden to others and are in too much physical and/or emotional pain to go on.”

Symptoms of Depression:

• Being anxious or nervous
• Feeling sad the majority of the time
• Lack of interest in activities that you used to enjoy
• Loss of appetite
• Thoughts of harming yourself
• Trouble sleeping

“Depression can make it very difficult to reach out for help,” Miki said. “However, it is important to tell someone if you notice you are experiencing any of these thoughts or feelings before they worsen.”

Ways to cope with depression include psychotherapy (counseling), exercise and anti-depressants prescribed by a medical doctor. Hope Cancer Resources offers counseling with licensed social workers and personal training sessions with a certified personal trainer at no cost to cancer patients and caregivers.

Depression can be hard to cope with, but there are ways to improve its symptoms. If you need help managing your cancer-related depression, please contact Lauren Dallas, LCSW, OSW-C, Emotional Support Services Coordinator at lauren.dallas@hopecancerresources.org or 479-361-5847 to schedule a time to meet. All services will be offered free of charge.