Depression and Cancer

(Mental Health Series)

Feelings of depression are common when patients and family members are coping with cancer. It is normal to feel sadness and grief. Dreams, plans, and the future may seem uncertain. But if a person has been sad for a long time or is having trouble carrying out day-to-day activities, there may be reason to be concerned.

Depression can be mild and temporary with periods of sadness but can also be more severe and lasting. The more severe type is often…