Depression

Hi LuAnn, I was excited to read your post because I, too, live in the Cleveland area and am very familiar with The Gathering Place and all the wonderful support programs they have to offer. I know you will find help for your depression there--they have support groups just for recurrent/metastatic survivors, as well as individual counseling if needed. I was diagnosed at Stage III almost 3 years ago and have been going to the Gathering Place regularly for various programs to boost my spirits--drum circles, scarf painting, even belly dancing classes--but one of the most helpful things for me was to take advantage of Reiki--schedule yourself a free Reiki session there ASAP--it did wonders for relaxing my mind and body. Their library also has wonderful books on dealing with cancer & guided imagery tapes...After raving about the Gathing Place, I also have to tell you that my anxiety started after treatment ended, when I felt like I was just waiting for the cancer to come back, so my doctor recommended Paxil, which can be good for depression and anxiety (hot flashes, too). So take advantage of counseling and other alternatives, but if nothing works, don't be afraid to take medication if needed...Here's my home e-mail if you'd like to keep in touch-I'm 39 and live in Shaker Heights,--thewhites1234@sbcglobal.net. Best of luck to you and hope to see you at the Gathering Place (mark your calendar for the group drum circle August 5th--a real communal, healing experience)--Audrey