Doing research while being anxious
I am not sure how to say this or if there is an answer, but I am very scared. I got prostate cancer diagnosis about 3-4 weeks ago and I have been scared. Anxiety and Depression setting in and it appears to be worse than the prostate cancer itself in a way - if that makes any sense.. I find it difficult to do the needed research on treatment options and details as it upsets me reading about side effects and other risks. Then I have hard time thinking. The one thing I have been trying to do is limit my reading about prostate cancer for about 2 hours in the morning, then try to block out any thoughts about it for rest of the day by distracting myself by doing or thinking about other things. An attempt to settle myself down. But, it doesn't always work as the thought of cancer pops into my head during the day and I get nervous again. Then, I try to settle down and rest. Sometimes in the morning if I am reading some more reassuring things about advanced treatment technology today, it actually helps me rather than scaring me. But, it's been a roller coaster. I have consults lined up with medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and surgeon for end of this month. I am trying to research as much as I can before these discussions so I have an informed perspective. I don't really know what the qualifications are of these doctors yet. But, I suppose that is one of the "interview" questions. I will create a separate post on my diagnosis, but for now short story is: Age 68, (3+4) = 7 unfavorable with spread to pelvic lymph nodes. cT3a N1 M0. - No decision to do surgery vs radiation yet. Or ADT. I don't know enough yet to decide. At this time I am trying to find a means to settle my nerves without drugs. Onset of Anxiety and Depression is the issue. Not a surprise really given circumstances. But, not sure there is an answer other then trying to stay strong and thinking positive. But, easy to tell myself this but so hard to implement. I am wearing myself down being scared. Thank you, Dan
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Wow, you've described the mindset of many (all?) of the posters here as we first got the news. But within a month, after the consultations, you will have a path forward, though for a while it may just be a new series questions to be investigated. In my own case, one set of scans led to another, and then a biopsy, all needed to zero in on what was wrong and how to treat it (or not). There was even a change in providers along the way. The main thing is that it's all been ACTIVE - and movement in itself has been, for me, a great antidote to the mental and emotional spins you've described. We all have limited control in this, but doing the exercise, research, and self-advocacy makes us active partners in reaching the best possible outcomes for ourselves.
And talk - and write. In fact, thanks for the self-talk opportunity this morning! Bon voyage!