5 simple strategies to care for your mental health during cancer treatment

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.

How cancer affects your mental health

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:

• Sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability
• Feeling numb or worthless
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Avoiding friends or family
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

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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:

• Fear of cancer spreading or coming back
• Fears about side effects, like pain or nausea
• Worries about the future
• Concerns about money
• Fear of death

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:

• Forgetfulness
• Trouble concentrating
• Trouble thinking or solving problems
• Difficulty finding the right word
• Feeling like you’re in a fog

5 ways to cope with cancer stress

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:

1. Counseling. Mental health professionals, like psychologists, social workers, and psychiatrists, will listen to you and help you work through your feelings. They can show you how to notice when you’re having negative thoughts and show you new ways to cope.
2. Medication. Antidepressants can help lift your mood and improve other depression symptoms. Anti-anxiety drugs may help too. Your doctor will look at your medical history and other drugs you’re taking to see if medicine is right for you.
3. A support group. Support groups are a safe space to share your feelings with people going through the same thing. It can also be helpful to hear other patients’ experiences. Your social worker or nurse can help you find a cancer support group.
4. Practicing mindfulness. Meditation can be effective. A recent study showed that taking part in a meditation program improved the quality of life and boosted the mental health of cancer patients. Deep breathing exercises can also relax you. And you can practice mindfulness anywhere—even when you’re doing the dishes. It’s simply about paying close attention to what’s happening in the moment.
5. Exercising. Breaking a sweat is a good way to relieve anxiety. Take a walk outside, try an online yoga class, or ride a stationary bike. Any activity that gets you moving counts.

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.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.