Metastatic pancreatic cancer: taking care of mental health

Pancreatic cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages, and many people are diagnosed after the cancer has advanced. At the time of diagnosis, it's estimated that over half of people with pancreatic cancer will have metastatic disease.

Metastatic pancreatic cancer refers to cancer that began in the pancreas but has spread to other areas of the body, such as nearby lymph nodes, the liver, lungs, bones, brain, and/or other tissues within the abdomen. This type of cancer is not considered curable, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and helping a person live longer.

Living with metastatic cancer is challenging, and it often affects a person’s mental and emotional health. Many people experience distress related to prognosis, treatment decisions, treatment side effects, the cost of treatment, and being a burden to caregivers. The physical symptoms of cancer and side effects from treatment—such as fatigue, pain, and digestive problems—can significantly impact how a person feels day to day, and their quality of life.

Remember that you are not alone

Living with metastatic cancer can feel isolating at times, but it's important to remember that this is not something you need to face all on your own. There are people who can help you manage the mental and emotional challenges of living with cancer. These include:

• Your healthcare providers. In order to provide the best care possible, your healthcare team needs to know how you are feeling—both physically and emotionally. They can suggest strategies to improve your quality of life and can refer you to additional resources that can help meet your treatment needs.
• Oncology social workers. Oncology social workers are licensed professionals who specialize in helping people whose lives are affected by cancer. They can provide counseling, and can also assist with practical aspects of managing cancer care, such as navigating the healthcare system or finding transportation to and from treatment appointments.
• Support groups. Connecting with others who have pancreatic cancer or similar conditions can be helpful. It can be a source of emotional support. It can also be a source of information. Support groups meet both in person and online. Hospitals and cancer centers often have information about local support groups.

There are also your friends and loved ones. Friends and family are often an important source of support when living with cancer. This support might take different forms at different times. Support can be help with meals or errands when you are recovering from treatment. It can also be having someone to call when you need a break from thinking about your diagnosis.

What do you need to talk about?

Mental health and emotions can be difficult topics to discuss, and it can be difficult to put your feelings into words. Consider keeping a journal. Writing down your thoughts and experiences can help you better understand the type of support you need, the challenges you are facing, and how to describe your experiences when talking to your healthcare providers or your loved ones.

Here are some questions to consider when thinking about your mental and emotional health:

• Do you feel anxious, angry, or depressed?
• How has pancreatic cancer affected your day-to-day life?
• What has become more difficult because of your diagnosis?
• Has the diagnosis affected your relationships with friends and loved ones?
• Are you experiencing pain, fatigue, or other physical symptoms?
• Do you have concerns about your treatment plan or test results?
• Are you worried about the cost of treatment?
• How often do you feel stressed or overwhelmed?
• What is the most challenging aspect of living with pancreatic cancer?

It's also important to keep learning about metastatic pancreatic cancer and your diagnosis. Talk to your healthcare team and ask questions—they will be your best source of information about your diagnosis. Ask for recommendations about where to learn more about this type of cancer and the treatment options that are available.