Depression
Methods of Managing Cancer Related Depression (Hormones)

Hormones are naturally occurring substances within the body that affect mood. Estrogen improves mood in a variety of ways. A decrease in estrogen levels can trigger depression, such as during menstrual periods, menopause, and pregnancy. Estrogen-related chemicals used to treat breast cancer lower estrogen levels within the body and in turn actually lower the levels of serotonin, a mood-regulating chemical, in the brain. For people with breast or gynecologic cancer a common cancer treatment involves reducing levels of estrogen.

For those women with cancer undergoing natural changes in estrogen levels unrelated to cancer treatment, consideration should be given to hormone replacement therapy, particularly if mood disturbances such as depression are affecting quality of life.

Similarly, in men with low testosterone levels depression is a common occurrence. If low levels of testosterone are a normal part of aging and not cancer treatment related, testosterone replacement therapy has been found to improve depression. ²⁹

Antidepressant medications in combination with non-medication supportive therapies has been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms in people undergoing estrogen restriction as part of their cancer treatment. ²²

Other naturally occurring hormones such as the thyroid hormones and melatonin have been found to cause symptoms of depression when deficiencies in these essential hormones occur.

St John's Wort (the botanical name is hypericum perforatum) is believed to act as an anti-anxiety and antidepressant agent. Also known as Hyperforin, St. John's Wort works by preventing the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine (mood regulating chemicals) in the brain, allowing them to stay at higher levels in the brain rather than being reabsorbed into the body. Several studies have shown the effectiveness of St. John's Wort in improving mood with fewer side effects than antidepressant medications. However, there is a significant potential for interaction with other medications being taken. Therefore, before taking St. John's Wort, contact your healthcare provider to ensure this is a safe choice for you.

SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) is not an herb or a hormone. It's a molecule that all living cells, including our own, produce constantly. SAMe may enhance the impact of mood-boosting messengers such as serotonin and dopamine-either by regulating their breakdown or by speeding production of the receptor molecules they latch on to. SAMe may also make existing receptors more responsive. Research studies need to be done to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of SAMe.