Have there been any studies for survivors under 40 regarding depression/suicide?

09/21/09

young survivor 888

Topics:Breast Cancer , survivors , severe depression , suicidal thoughts , young , post-treatment

I'm distraught after reading the article, "Breast Cancer and Depression". I let the tears fall full-force when I read that one-third of women with breast cancer will experience significant emotional stress for up to 20 years after treatment. I'm only 35 and am a (nearly) 4-year survivor. My depression is at a point that it is almost out of control (with multiple medications, 2 therapy sessions per week, and too many doctors to list). If my life continues down this path, 20 years will definitely be unbearable. I'm out of "fight". I feel like the boxer that just gives up when he knows he's finally defeated. Does anyone know, have there been studies linking breast cancer survivors (not just diagnosed, but post-treatment), suicide rates, and especially aimed at "young" survivors (those under 40)? I have a hard time finding substantiated information for survivors under 40.Thanks - T

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Answers (1)

Monday, September 21, 2009

Phyllis Johnson

I'm sorry that you are having so much trouble with post-treatment depression. It sounds like you are doing a good job of being proactive in finding ways to cope. I can't point you to any specific articles that have looked at your age group, but you might try the Young Survival Coalition for resources on the topic. I don't think the study you mention was saying that one-third of women have 20 years of depression. I think it means that at various points in their lives emotional stress will affect them even long after they finish treatment. So try to focus on getting better right now. The strategies that eventually work for you with this bout of depression will probably work for you IF it happens again.

What I find happening in my own life (11 years out of treatment) is that I'm fine most of time, but certain events can trigger anxiety. Keep up with the counseling and have faith that you and your doctors will find the right combination of medicines and emotional strategies that will make you feel better.