Read about dealing with the emotional impact of pancreatic cancer
We have more information about dealing with the emotional impact of pancreatic cancer, and things that can help.
Anxiety and depression
People with pancreatic cancer may be more likely to have anxiety or depression. Getting the right support can help you cope if you are struggling.
What's in the 'Emotional impact of pancreatic cancer' section?
People who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis often feel low or anxious from time to time. But for many people with pancreatic cancer, these feelings don’t go away, leading to more serious problems with anxiety and depression.
Symptoms of depression include:
- feeling down, depressed or hopeless
- loss of interest or pleasure in daily life
- problems sleeping
- increased or decreased appetite
- changes in your weight
- having no energy
- finding it difficult to concentrate.
Symptoms of anxiety include:
- feeling anxious and worried on more days than not
- feeling restless or on edge
- finding it difficult to concentrate
- getting irritable
- having problems sleeping.
It’s important to know you are not alone. Speak to your doctor, nurse or GP about how you are feeling as soon as possible. They can support you and find ways to manage the anxiety or depression.
It may help to sort out any practical issues that are worrying you, such as financial issues, work or worries about family. Your medical team may also suggest a talking therapy such as counselling to help you work through your feelings. They may also prescribe medicines to help treat depression or anxiety.
Read about coping with pancreatic cancer
Get support
Speak to your doctor or nurse if you have symptoms of depression, or feel you are struggling.
You can also speak to our specialist nurses on our free Support Line with any questions about anxiety or depression or getting support.
“It is so overwhelming and it is so important to be kind to yourself, give yourself plenty of time, allow the emotions to come and go, and talk to anyone you can.”
Published November 2022
To be reviewed November 2025