Lymphedema and Depression

Depression is a medical problem where feelings of sadness and distress are long-lasting and interfere with activities of daily living. Common symptoms of depression include a loss of interest in hobbies, fatigue, memory problems and suicidal thoughts.

After lymphedema diagnosis and during lymphedema treatment, it is common to feel sad and scared at times. These feelings can come and go, but when these feelings persist throughout the day and most days of the week for more than 2 weeks, it may be a sign of clinical depression.

Even if you think your feelings are normal, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about how you are feeling. If depression is untreated, your quality of life may be affected. It may be harder for you to finish your cancer treatment.

We recommend screening for depression at the medical evaluation, during and after treatment.