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On Lupron experiencing major depression and anxiety

Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Mar 24 7:22am | Replies (57)

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@brianjarvis

We often hear about the physical benefits of exercise to minimize the side-effects of hormone therapy (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YE61HSAsFb0). But, there are also mental health benefits as well: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8n0cIhamFvo
As they mention, Exercise turns on many types of switches in the parts of the brain that puts us in a better mood. It reduces stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, and more. Incorporating resistance-training exercise is a necessary part of the routine to minimize the potential physical/mental side-effects of hormone therapy.
Many cancer treatment centers have counselors to help patients and family members in dealing with the emotional and mental aspects of prostate cancer and hormone therapy. You might consider reaching out to them.

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Replies to "We often hear about the physical benefits of exercise to minimize the side-effects of hormone therapy..."

While on Lupron + abiraterone/prednisone,I enrolled in a 6 month clinical trial which incorporated diet counseling and 30 minutes of aerobic exercise (heart rate above 70% of max for age) and 30 minutes of resistance training, ( a dumbell and body weight workout) at home, but with live virtual instructors, 3 times a week. Though temporary, each session provided a break from the fatigue and a sense of well being, both of which helped me get through the 24 months of ADT. It became a habit which I am continuing. In addition, getting outdoors to appreciate nature each day was helpful.

While evidence of the efficacy of dietary changes on prostate cancer is inconclusive, efforts to optimize a healthy diet not only improved my blood work labs and helped control weight and body composition, but it introduced us to recipes for dishes from many different cuisines and eliminated much of the meat, added sugar and sodium in our diet without any feeling of sacrifice. Combined, these changes make me feel as though I am less likely to succumb to the wide array of comorbidities triggered by ADT and aging. Besides all of that, eating incredibly seasoned healthy foods puts joy in my heart and a smile on my face!