How did you cope with depression during cancer treatment?

Currently immunotherapy

Thank you for sharing something so personal and important with the community. Depression during cancer treatment is indeed very common, and reaching out for support shows real strength. Many others in this community have walked a similar path and found various approaches helpful, from working with oncology social workers and therapists who specialize in cancer care, to joining support groups, practicing mindfulness techniques, and staying connected with loved ones. The combination of medical and emotional support often makes the biggest difference. Hopefully, others will share their experiences and strategies that helped them through this challenging time.

I’m Paul, and diagnosed with stage 3B colon cancer, I have just completed my 4th, and hopefully final, round of chemo (Capacetbine/Oxaliplatin). I think if it doesn’t depress you THAT would be weird! 🤣 When I started with chemo and was at the infusion center, and after just having half of my colon removed, I remarked to the intake team that apparently that leaves me with a semicolon! I’m a musician so I made it my point to raise the spirits of my peers and I even brought 2 members of Santana to come play with my (while yes, my arm was burning on fire!). I think my trident, if you will, to deal with depression was: 1. Realize how lucky I was. I know this sounds contrary to common sense. I was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2025, not 1925. I’ve been incredibly lucky my whole life, and if this is the speed bump, I have to deal with, that’s exactly what I’ll do. 2. Put myself in the service of others. Drawing on my knowledge and confidence that I have been lucky, it’s time to share the wealth. I’ve spent time now with other patients talking and mostly listening. Knowing that I’m doing something positive with my experience has helped keep depression at bay. 3. Self-care. Here’s where I draw on my years of practice in Buddhism, and primarily in mindfulness meditation. Again, I think I’m lucky to have found this a few years ago because when I have been panicked, and boy have I been panicked (!) It has helped me recover. I’m not saying it wasn’t dark, it was very dark. I used everything from breathing exercises to practices like R.A.I.N. and S.T.O.P. I’m glad to walk you through these more, but when I was in surgery recovery I developed Ileus, and I was unable to eat or drink even water for almost 3 weeks. It was very challenging and it was almost impossible to cope with. Depression just means you are emotionally paying attention to the gravity of the situation. That is okay. You are okay. In currently working on a presentation to help others with a working title of Thriving through, Crisis with Focus. I feel like I have a new lease on life and I want others to find what I have. I’m glad to talk, or whatever. Know that we all care about you and we really appreciate what it’s like. It’s okay to be depressed and probably close to 100% of our peers have experienced it. It’s okay to ask for help. Remember that. You will find you’re stronger than you ever thought you could be. And maybe won’t have that strength will come from letting others help you too. ❤️

Sorry for blathering on. Let me know how I can help. I feel lucky that maybe I can help others (and my journey isn’t over. Not yet at least!)

Paul you are such an inspiration to the community as we meet these challenges. In our cancer journey. Let us know more about your Crisis with Focus program.

Consider a good therapist perhaps someone experienced in cancer treatment and depression. There is no such thing as too much support. There are some wonderful support groups virtually and in person. Our minds and bodies are intimately connected. Sometimes we need to treat both. Let people love and nurture you. I so appreciate your share and sharing honestly helps others. This is hard stuff ❤️ I’ve been diagnosed with bladder cancer since April 2025. I’m still feeling a bit numb. Ive experienced depression on and off and find that it’s almost easier for people to relate to physical things over depression. I wish you the best. My name is Lauren by the way.

Thank you Paul. I also practice Buddhism for many years now. It helps so much. Your share was uplifting.