What Mental Health Complications are Associated with a Mesothelioma Diagnosis?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive and incurable cancer that can weigh heavily on the mental health of veterans and their families. Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma may have the following conditions develop or worsen while dealing with their illness:
- Depression: As mesothelioma has a very low long-term survival rate, veterans may feel hopeless, down, and fatigued.
- Suicidal thoughts or crisis feelings: A serious diagnosis can increase emotional distress. If you or someone you love is in immediate danger or crisis, call 988 (Press 1 for Veterans) or contact the Veterans Crisis Line for free, confidential support 24/7.
- Bipolar and anxiety disorders: Worry about treatment, finances, and family can lead to persistent anxiety, panic attacks, and sleep disruption.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Many veterans already deal with PTSD from service-related trauma, and a mesothelioma diagnosis can exacerbate their symptoms.
Why Are Mesothelioma Patients at a Higher Risk for Depression?
A significant portion of cancer patients experience symptoms of depression, with some studies suggesting depression in cancer patients is associated with worse health outcomes, which may be linked to factors like reduced treatment adherence and increased physical stress. Mesothelioma might be particularly likely to lead to depression and other mental health effects because of its incurability and high mortality rate.
Are There Any Resources Provided by the US Department of Veterans Affairs?
The VA provides a variety of resources to support veterans dealing with mental health issues, including:
- Disability compensation, depending on your condition and how severe it is
- A 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line for confidential help
- Mental health services and counseling at VA medical facilities, regardless of whether you have health care benefits
- Apps, programs, and online tools for self-help treatment
If you need help accessing VA mental health services, the experienced lawyers at The Gori Law Firm are here to assist you.
Mental Health Treatment Can Improve Your Mesothelioma Outlook
While depression and other mental health conditions are tied to higher mortality, getting help can have the opposite effect. Seeking treatment for your mental health problems might not only help you enjoy your life more — it may also help you extend it.
According to a 2020 study, VA cancer patients who received treatment for mental health conditions or substance use disorders generally lived significantly longer than others. Vets being treated for their mental health also had a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage.
How The Gori Law Firm Can Help
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a U.S. veteran, Gori Law is a trusted ally that can help you pursue the compensation your family deserves. Our team has handled mesothelioma claims for over 20 years, recovering over $4 billion in verdicts and settlements for clients like you.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, we’re here to help. Contact us online or call 618-659-9833 today for a free case evaluation, and learn how our firm supports the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.