Anxiety

sal314 said:

Anxiety is Awful
I went on Effexor ER after I was diagnosed. I also took Xanex when I started having panic attacks. It very well be that you don't only have anxiety, but depression as well. I'd talk with your doctor and maybe try something. Effexor is good for both. It was also prescribed by my oncologist because it's been shown to help lessen hot flashes brought on by hormonal therapy for bc.

Anyway, you also may want to look into a support group. They are really helpful. And...make sure you exercise! You don't have to become a gym rate. Just a brisk walk for 15 minutes really helps with the nerves!

Best,
Sally

How Funny
Sally, when I read your post I looked at the name 3 times to make sure I hadn't responded. I too take Effexor XR and Zanax as needed. I started the Effexor at the time specifically for the danged hot flashes

Now, I take it for both flashing and anxiety. I am getting ready to start chemo again. This round is the 4th time in 5 years. I did chemo first time, watch and wait for a few months, then radiation. The 3rd time I did Rituxan (a monoclonal antibody)and now it's back again...need chemo again. My onc is starting talk about stem cell transplant, so I know about anxiety, fear, anger. You name it, it's going through my mind at light speed.

I had a lymph node and bone marrow biopsies this last wednesday. I get the results on tuesday and the closer the day comes, the less I sleep and more I eat. I have a drain tube under my armpit and I hurt, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It's ok to rant and rave. I just keep coming back and deep breathing, walking, doing everything I can to get through a moment.

Take care,

Beth

anxiety
xanax, seems to help. may make you a bit tired, but what the h- doesnt at this point right?! I am on the lowest dose, and it works.

3Mana said:

Hubby had cancer, not me
My hubby had cancer and passed away suddenly after only 2 months. I was put on Sertraline (Zoloft) and Lorazapam for anxiety. I'm sure your doctor could put you on something if you let him or her know how you're feeling. Good luck! Sorry you have to deal with this horrible disease. Take care! Let us know how you're doing! Carole

Prayer is a great thing.
Prayer is a great thing. Pray. Get some physical exercise, walking is great. Move. Do something for someone else, get your focus on something other than the cancer. The medication that have been suggested are all very helpful, but, pair them with prayer, and physical exercise. If you do not believe in prayer, meditate...

Listen to great music....live today let tomorrow take care of itself....

It is easier said than done, but, it gets easier with practice.

Prayers and blessing for you.

if you pray dont worry and
if you pray dont worry and if you worry dont pray, you can take all the pills you want,but reality is still the same. instead of trying to block out the anxiety, why not find out what is causing it and change your thinking? i had major fear when diagnosed. fear of death( which i found out it wasnt death, but the timing) and fear of everything beyond today. i am powerless over anything that isnt happening today and if i let my thinker go crazy, everything in my life will be unmanageable. so, i turn to the God of my understanding, change my thinking to positive, and get busy enjoying life.