Citalopram - anxiety during recovery from cancer

[Housetreehouse]

I'm coming to the end of 12 months of breast cancer treatment. I've been lucky and had a complete response to chemotherapy - my prognosis is the best it could be BUT but I have become increasingly anxious. It is massively affecting my appetite and sleep. I am chasing symptoms round my body and generally feeling terrified. My GP has prescribed me Citalopram - I had a good experience with it several years ago when suffering with post natal depression so I hope it will lift the fog again. I'm trying to arrange some counselling too. Any experiences of moving forward after serious ill health?

Sorry you’ve been through such an awful time, I’m pleased you’re making a good recovery and hope it continues for you. It’s not surprising you feel as you do, I think most people would. I think some form of counselling would definitely be beneficial.
I took citalopram years ago, I didn’t personally get on with it, but if it was effective for you before, then it’s worth a try.

citalopram might well give you some relief from these debilitating symptoms, but I agree that you need some talking therapy too. There’s probably going to be a lot to offload and pick through.

Hi OP. This is normal at this stage. I finished my treatment in November and had overwhelming anxiety. It could also be related to new hormone suppressing medication, if you're on that (it takes a few weeks to get used to).

Definitely get some counselling. You can get some free sessions through Macmillan or possibly the hospital. Also go on the Breast Cancer Now moving forward course (I think that's what it's called) when your treatment is over. I found it massively helpful. You will be ok. You've been through a lot.

Thank you so much for replying. My cancer was Triple Negative so no ongoing hormone suppressants but treatment has most probably plunged me straight into the menopause and that could well be playing its part in how I feel. I've just booked onto a Breast Cancer Now Moving Forward course - thank you for the tip. @Emmylou22 glad to hear you're out the other side, I hope you're doing well.