Post Herceptin Emotions

Ruth2 · 02-23-2012, 05:42 PM

With herceptin, I would have a slump and it would pass before the next treatment until the last two treatments. My last two treatments the fog didn't lift, and then after treatment I had an emotional spell from which I am continuing to recover, with help, and well, really, all things considered, but alongside that my boyfriend just died (and he was a little put off by my emotional needs, which complicated our last months together). This past year, there were other significant deaths (but this one has me rattled). I am working on ways to balance the stress since I know that we need to be a little serene post-cancer to try to avoid recurrence. Any advice on how to do that given what life tends to give us at times? I guess I know that we can't avoid stress, that we can only learn to control our response to what life gives us, but even so, I could use some advice on coping with emotions post-cancer when you know that they can be toxic to continued good health....

Jackie07 · 02-23-2012, 05:59 PM

Thirty minutes daily walk does wonders. Give it a try - the endorphin boost should help improve your mood while regulating everything, including your physical strength.

Can you talk to a counselor provided by your health plan? You have much to grieve - it might be helpful to talk to a professional counselor.

Sending you good vibes.

nsebesta · 02-23-2012, 08:20 PM

Dear Ruth, first of all I'm sorry your loss. Sometimes life hands us more than we think we can handle, but, we do. I lost my Mom and my only son 6 mos. apart. I was numb for a while. Couldn't believe life had dealt me so many blows...cancer twice and then losing my son. You expect your parents (although it was sudden and on Christmas day) but not your children. But you know what, I've survived...somehow. I did miss a couple of herceptin treatments b/c of my ejection frac tion being to low (I think it was broken heart syndrom). God has led me through it all. Just when you think you can't handle anymore, He comes in and carries you. He will carry you also...all you have to do is ask. Many prayers coming your way.

karen z · 02-24-2012, 08:47 AM

I think Jackie's advice is good. Try to talk to someone. Many cancer centers have wellness clinics with free counseling. My hospital will treat anyone in the city- don't have to be a patient in the hospital. Stay strong.

Paty · 02-25-2012, 09:49 PM

Hi Ruth,
After my treatments and readjustment to work, i was feeling pretty stressed, sad and depreessed. I also had anxiety and panic attacks that I could not control. I decided to look por professional help (psychiatrist), and it made wonders. Taking medication was necessary but it have made wonders, I feel much much better now. I lost my job 4 months ago and with that all my medical priviliges. I live in a country with a difficult situation, but in spite of all that, i feel rather good and my anxiety and depression are controlled. It would probably be good if you talk to your doctor and see what he/she can offer. I can understand that what you are going through is quite hard. Best of luck and keep us posted. Hugs to you.

Pray · 02-25-2012, 11:50 PM

Hi Ruth,

I am so sorry for your loss. Gods blessings to you and his family.

I too Lost my Mom just before I was dx and was already depressed so during treatment I grew more depressed.Then my youngest brother passed away and I started on venlafaxen which is an antidepressant. It has been a year and I had been doing very well and I look forward to going off the venlafaxen. My dr. wanted me on it for a year. I see him in two weeks and hope to be weened off. One less drug, Everyone on this site I'm sure knows what its like to just have one less pill to take!

Your Friend,

Nancy

sarah · 02-26-2012, 12:47 AM

Sorry for your loss. The other have given good advice, I'd add join a gym and do Pilates and Body Balance. Both are good for the body and mind and it will get you out doing things. Body Balance ends with a time of meditation which also may be helpful and it incorporates t'ai chi, yoga and pilates.
and get together with friends. don't sit at home and don't watch the news- always too depressing.
you're grieving so it takes time. learn to take one day at a time.
hugs and love
sarah

Ruth2 · 02-26-2012, 07:23 AM

Thank you. You know, knowing something is one thing, but hearing it from others who have experience is more. I have an exercise routine and belong to a gym but can make it better (take a class, do more, etc.). Since Jackie's post, I have made a point to walk at least a half hour a day outside. My friends are good to me. The cancer center too (it found a counselor when I first noticed the emotional issue). I guess what I needed to know from you all is that (a) I am not alone (hard times don't choose when to come to all of us, as you show, and life goes on, no matter) and (b) I should remain hopeful. Antidepressants are also good, I know, but I had this idea after chemo/etc that I wanted no more big drugs...my dr. did try to convince me to try...but not yet. Trying some natural approaches for now (for example, light box therapy).