Fact 5. The Influence of Psychological Factors on Fatigue in Thyroid Cancer Patients
In discussing fatigue related to thyroid cancer, one must not overlook the psychological factors. The diagnosis of thyroid cancer alone can be an emotional whirlwind leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s well-documented that these psychological conditions can significantly contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, many people report feeling overwhelmed and mentally exhausted. They must navigate a world of medical jargon, treatments, side effects, and constant worry about the future. This heightened state of stress can drain their mental energy reserves, leading to psychological fatigue.
Moreover, both anxiety and depression are closely associated with sleep disturbances. People may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or find that their sleep isn’t restful or restorative. Inadequate sleep is a direct ticket to fatigue. Given that sleep is a prime recovery time for the body, this disruption can further exacerbate fatigue.(5)
