How has gynecological cancer affected you on an emotional level?

Good morning, Helen,
Let me be the first to chime in...
Simply put, I wake up in fear every morning. Some days are better than others, but anxiety and depression alternate. I have resisted meds so far...just try to keep busy. Like you, I am retired and find solace in nature.
I have been somewhat of a hermit because of Covid, and that hasn't helped...
At this point I'm considering an SSRI.
Have you tried any?
Eileen

Thank you for your honesty. Our dominate culture of toxic positivity, as well as the directive to "get over it," are not very helpful, are they? 🙂 I started cranial sacral treatments during my chemotherapy last fall, and have continued them. While I cannot explain cranial sacral work very well, I will share what my practitioner once said to me. Don't be surprised, she said, when you have emotions about your diagnosis and treatment long after those things are 'done.' The body worked hard to get through all of it, and now, in a safe space and time, can let those feelings of fear, sadness, anger, anxiety and depression resurface. Let them. Acknowledge them kindly, so they're able to move through you. So that's what I try to keep in mind when I have seemingly inexplicable feelings of depression. Thanks for the opportunity to talk about this facet of 'survivorship.'

I learned of a very helpful website. The North American Menopause Society has all kinds of information including an interactive page that will help you find physicians who are certified in providing menopausal care. I've had such terrible advice from primary care providers over the years that I wish I'd known about this speciality when I entered menopause. For anyone who has entered menopause early due to a hysterectomy with oopherectomy (removal of ovaries) this could be a good place to get help with your emotional and physical symptoms.

Has anyone else seen a physician who specializes in menopause?