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ACS & ASCO are Stronger Together: Cancer.Net content is now available on cancer.org.

 

 

Emotional, Mental Health, and Mood Changes

A cancer diagnosis can affect the emotional health of patients, families, and caregivers. Common feelings during this life-changing experience include anxiety, distress, and depression. Roles at home, school, and work can be affected. It's important to recognize these changes and get help when needed.  

Anxiety

Anxiety means feeling uncomfortable, worried, or scared about a real or possible situation.  It's important to recognize anxiety and take steps to manage it or prevent it from getting worse. 

Depression

Feelings of depression are common in cancer patients, families, and caregivers. Learn how to spot depression and if there is reason to be concerned.

Distress

Distress is an unpleasant emotion, feeling, thought, condition, or behavior. Being distressed can affect the way you think, feel, or act, and can make it hard to cope with the effects of having cancer.

Social Isolation and Loneliness

Being isolated or lonely can affect how you feel, both mentally and physically. If you are isolated or lonely, there are things you can do to take care of yourself and stay connected. 

Video

Cancer may impact mental health and bring about feelings of distress. Learn these helpful tips to cope with distress and keep a healthy mind.