Hi, after double mastectomy, removing of 11 lymph nodes and 5 operations due to infection, i went on to 4 a.c. then 10/12 paclitaxel. Lost hair toe nails, immense pain in hands and feet. Always remained very positive and happy. Have been on tamoxifen for nearly two weeks and i am so down and keep crying. Has anyone suffered depression while on Tamoxifen? Or is it my mounting financial debt thats hitting me

The Cancer Council counsellors are brilliant. You can have 5 free visits with a counsellor. They can also help put you in touch with people about financial issues. This kind of stress is the worst, especially when you are feeling run down. I took a holiday from Tamoxifen to see if that was the cause. I never went back on it because it was. I wouldn’t encourage anyone to give it up, but it’s worth talking to your doctor about it.At work I take breaks now and try to put my health first. I keep lists, use my phone diary and take photos of things I need to remember. I have also tried to schedule medical appointments outside of work time, although this isn’t always possible. I set limits with people and they eventually stopped asking me about my health. I have a supportive line manager and work has been my rock over the last few years. I also keep plants in my office and avoid posting cancer related comments on my Facebook page because I have workmates on there. I have basically protected myself from discrimination. I did experience the prejudice of ‘low expectations’ early on but overcame this. Having said that, ask for help at work if you need it. All the best. I’m sure you’re doing a great job. It’s all individual and you’ll find your way. Take care. x

Hi! @"Bon Bon" Perhaps it is because Tamoxifen is at the end of everything else you've been through and the feeling of being overwhelmed by it all has accumulated to the point of where you are at now! May I suggest that you ring BCNA and speak with one of the Counsellors / Nurses on line - A conversation in private may just help give you some guidance!Take care, sending you a virtual hughttp://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/17631/helpline-nurse-member-services-officer-available-tonight-on-helpline-1800-500-258

There are a few things happening in your life atm. Could you be going through menopause? I got the triple whammy of chemo, menopause and Tamoxifen and for a while it was absolutely unbearable. I got on to the doctor for antidepressants but could only take them for a couple of months as my glands enlarged and my body wouldnt tolerate it. With time and the cancer treatment 2yrs ago starting to be just a memory, my depression is getting better and I am still on Tamoxifen. As soon as my oncologist thinks my menopause is finished I will be going on to Femara on his suggestion.

Yes, absolutely, this also is me. BUT I've been through a lot (as have you) and have a LOT on my plate atm, so who knows. Tamoxifen or not??? I think a lot hits us after treatment finishes. Does your oncologist have a survivorship counsellor? I found this good. Or get a mental health plan with your GP and see if you can get to the bottom of it with a psychologist. Look after yourself. You haven't come this far to be miserable!

I have to agree, its because you are on auto pilot through the entire ordeal, then you get to the end and everything catches up because you dont' have time through treatment. It's so incredibly normal, just give yourself some time and space and nurture you a little. It takes a long time but you do bounce back, Im 2.5yrs post chemo and 2 massive ops this year and am so good to where i was, feeling not too bad these days. xx M

Tamoxifen and depression | BCNA Online Network

Brenda5
Member
8 years ago
There are a few things happening in your life atm. Could you be going through menopause? I got the triple whammy of chemo, menopause and Tamoxifen and for a while it was absolutely unbearable. I got on to the doctor for antidepressants but could only take them for a couple of months as my glands enlarged and my body wouldnt tolerate it. With time and the cancer treatment 2yrs ago starting to be just a memory, my depression is getting better and I am still on Tamoxifen. As soon as my oncologist thinks my menopause is finished I will be going on to Femara on his suggestion.
iserbrown
Member
8 years ago
Hi! @"Bon Bon"
Perhaps it is because Tamoxifen is at the end of everything else you've been through and the feeling of being overwhelmed by it all has accumulated to the point of where you are at now! May I suggest that you ring BCNA and speak with one of the Counsellors / Nurses on line - A conversation in private may just help give you some guidance!

Take care, sending you a virtual hug

http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/17631/helpline-nurse-member-services-officer-available-tonight-on-helpline-1800-500-258

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