Is it normal to feel depressed after a cancer diagnosis?

Many people with cancer feel sad. It's a common response to any serious illness, as you deal with the loss of your health and the life you had before. For some people these feelings ease over time.

For others, the painful feelings don't get better and start to get in the way of daily life. This may mean depression, which can be common in some people with cancer. Often people don't realize that depression is a medical condition that can be treated. For some, cancer treatment adds to it by changing the way the brain works.

The National Cancer Institute advises talking to your doctor if you have signs of depression for more than 2 weeks. Signs include lasting sadness, feeling hopeless or worthless, and losing interest in things you enjoy. Others are sleep or appetite changes, trouble concentrating, and thoughts of hurting yourself. Some of these can also come from physical problems, so it's important to discuss them with your doctor.

You don't have to handle these feelings on your own. Your doctor may offer medicine or refer you to other experts. If you have thoughts of suicide, dial 911 in an emergency. You can also call, text, or chat 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is open 24 hours a day.