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The free Blue KC Care Management app makes it easy to get your questions about cancer answered. Download it now and use the access code kclinksupport to connect.
A cancer diagnosis can cause anxiety, worry, and fear. Here’s how to cope with those feelings — and stay strong.
Finding out you have cancer can be overwhelming. You have every right to feel worried, anxious, and sad right now.
You’re on a journey that will challenge your body, your mind, and your emotions. That’s true no matter what type of cancer you’re diagnosed with. And your family, friends, and caregivers will take this journey with you.
Remember, you are not alone. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1.9 million people were diagnosed in 2022. We also know that at least 30% to 35% of cancer patients will experience depression, anxiety, and stress. Some cancer treatments can also affect your mental sharpness.
You might be worried that your condition will get worse. You might be worried about the side effects of your chemotherapy or radiation. Maybe you’re concerned about how to keep working or pay the bills. Plus, the treatments themselves can affect your mood.
Knowing what to expect and how to care for your mental health is vital. “If you’re used to being independent and taking care of everything yourself, it’s hard to reach out and ask for help,” says oncology nurse navigator Rachelle Lucerna, R.N. But do it anyway.
Here’s what to know about your mental health right now and how to get help.
When you know what to expect, it’s easier to recognize a problem when it pops up. That way you can seek help sooner. Here are some common changes you might notice.
Depression: Cancer treatment is vital for slowing or stopping the progression of your disease. It’s common for people to be depressed during their cancer treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, as many as 25% of cancer patients may experience depression. Look for symptoms including:
The free Blue KC Care Management app makes it easy to get your questions about cancer answered. Download it now and use the access code kclinksupport to connect.
Anxiety: Everybody worries now and then. But with cancer, worries may grow into anxiety. Anxiety can make it tough to do the normal things you need to do. Be aware of symptoms like these:
Thinking and memory problems: Doctors call these “cognitive issues.” And more than 70% of people with cancer have them, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Symptoms include:
First, talk to your care team. If you notice signs that go on for a couple of weeks or more, reach out for help. Your doctor, oncologist, and nurse work with cancer patients all the time. They understand — and they won’t judge you. There are lots of effective strategies, including:
You also have access to mental and behavioral health benefits through your Blue KC plan. Talk to our local Care Team at 816-395-2060 to find out more or log into your insurance portal at MyBlueKC.com for more information.
Additional sources:
Cancer statistics: American Cancer Society
Depression statistic: National Cancer Institute
Cognitive issues statistic: American Society of Clinical Oncology
Coping strategies: American Cancer Society
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.