Fatigue & Depression (and more fatigue?!)

[Ebot]

I'm beginning to really think about the relationship between depression and fatigue and the extent to which one impacts on the other. It's never really discussed except in general terms and then often only in relation to specific drugs. Has anyone come across any studies on fatigue, depression and MPNs / cancer or the effects of anti-depressants on fatigue? If you're debilitated and frustrated by your condition is it any surprise we can feel depressed? And if we then feel depressed is it any wonder that we feel more fatigued and debilitated? I think this is one I may have to confront! It would be helpful to see the wood for the trees.

[Hidden]

Hi Ebot, I certainly think our thoughts affect our health and wellbeing, and the dreaded fatigue! I try to stay positive and not give in to it unless I absolutely have to. Otherwise I find I get onto a downward spiral where one feeds the other, but I'm getting good at spotting the signs before it gets too far and I make a positive intention to get up and do something (anything) to divert my thoughts. For me this works but I know there are many who can't climb out of the spiral once they hit the bottom. Our brains are incredibly powerful, and we have control over it, so be mindful of your thoughts!

I have post PV MF by the way, take Ruxolitinib and, on the whole, feel good! Hope you feel better soon.

[Paul42]

I agree fatigue leads to feeling depressed although im not sure its depression as such.

I am suffering awfully with fatigue right now and sometimes i feel very down, in tears sometimes as i cannot function properly.

I think as you say it goes hand in hand.

[cwayman11]

I agree with you but haven't done any research on that yet. I find myself often torn between giving myself a good talking to about how it could be so much worse so deal with it and move on and recognising I have to give in a little. I think the emotional aspect is equally as challenging as the physical one. Stay strong. X

[Aime]

Hi Ebot, I agree it can be a viscous circle. My GP told me to Google mood gym and I have found this site helpful. Your thoughts dictate your moods so if you can change the way you're thinking it can help with low moods.

I'm not saying it's a cure for all moods but I think it helps.

Kind regards Aime xx😺😺