Processing the last 6 months

Hang in there. You have gone
Hang in there. You have gone through a major physical and emotional trauma. It is one of the scariest things a women can go through. In the beginning, we are concentrating on the basics of getting rid of the tumor, radiation, medication, etc. Now we actually have time to reflect and it all comes to the front. I went through many different emotions. One of them is fear and another is anger and disbelief. I think I have finally started to accept that I actually have an illness. The good thing is that there is so much that can be done today that is less invasive and more targeted to our particular cancer. Cancer is no longer a death sentence as it once was. If you need to cry, by all means cry as it is a way our body releases the stress.

I am so glad you are going
I am so glad you are going to try the Effexor. As soon as I was diagnosed I knew I was spiraling down with anxiety and depression. I tried to ignore it thinking I was strong enough to handle everything without any help. Boy was I wrong. Well, after two months of suffering, I went to see a psychologist who gave me lexapro and let me talk openly about what just happened to me. I have to say it was a miracle. The medicine worked, but I think talking to someone saved me as well. I think this site might do the same. I wish I knew this existed 4 years ago when I was diagnosed. Just remember that you have every right to feel anxious, depressed, mad or any other emotion. Let it out. It will get better. I was able to get off the lexapro after 10 months, but I can't say after 4 years cancer free that I don't get anxious. Sure I worry about recurrence, but it no longer consumes me. As for the hot flashes, they are getting better. I still stick my head in the freezer once and a while!! Lol.