Emotions

EllaD99

Newly diagnosed.    Have had unipolar depression for 6 years. Which has been a huge illness to deal with.  And now DCIS
I am fortunate it’s very early and I know the prognosis is good. But I still feel worried about my future.  I’ve just retired.   

Afraser

Dear @EllaD99

I formally retired last October, after a period of long service leave. A funny year for it but I seem to have adjusted pretty well. I’m doing new things, enjoying myself and spending more time doing what I enjoy rather than what is required! Mind you my diagnosis was eight years ago, so I am in the happy position of knowing there is a future after the unpleasant news! And it’s been a really good eight years too.  

I haven’t suffered from depression but it’s not unusual after a cancer diagnosis. And you have had the condition for some years. So you may
need some really focussed support. You know your prognosis is good, which helps a lot but even so, don’t let anxiety get in the way of your recovery. This is not the best time to soldier on - make sure you have the help and assistance you need for your emotional health as well as your physical health. Best wishes. 

Cath62

Hi @EllaD99,

I retired in July 2019 and then covid hit and during the national lockdown I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Not the best start to retirement. I had travel plans and had booked a big trip. All changed because of covid of course but even with out covid, breast cancer would have stopped me. I have experienced depression before and I was concerned that I would suffer this again with the BC however I have managed to keep it at bay by walking daily and eating healthy, talking to a professional counsellor for support and practising mindfulness and meditation. Do what you can proactive every day to ward that depression off if you can. Get support wherever you can and through the treatment. I am a big one for being proactive to keep that black dog at bay. Good luck with your journey xx

arpie

So sorry to see you here, @EllaD99 ... you are in the right place for support and info on all steps!  We’ve all been there and don’t that.  I reckon everyone gets depressed with BC diagnosis, to a degree, just the level changes! ... with your existing history of depression, maybe check in with your psych/counsellor so they know what you are going thru now and hopefully they can give you extra coping mechanisms.  

Try and keep busy ... idle hands allows the brain to take over!  Try & keep your sense of humour 'up there', too - we have a really good 'funnies page' (called Friday Funnies, but we add them every day!!)  A good laugh now and then is good medicine.  Just click on the link to add your own pics and posts ... 
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/19116/friday-funnies#latest

If you are into arts & crafts, we have a 'Creative Corner' 
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/14979/creative-corner#latest

 and if into your garden, a Gardening post as well!! 
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/comment/186078#Comment_186078

If you have any questions or don’t understand stuff your team says, whack up questions here and we’ll do our best to help.  

I’d suggest you record all your early appts with your team, for the record, as it is easy to miss one bit, as you ponder what had just been said!  Take a buddy with you as well, for support and an extra set of ears.

Take care and all the best xx

EllaD99

Many thanks for all positive suggestions.