There are many aspects about the transplant process that can cause stress. The treatment and side effects are physically and emotionally draining. Fatigue, nausea, pain, and other unpleasant physical symptoms may worsen emotional symptoms and vice versa. Be assured, the transplant providers, nurses and social workers will closely monitor your physical and emotional symptoms and will intervene with medication or behavioral tools as needed to control your discomfort.
Many emotional reactions are common during the transplant process, such as depression, anxiety, fear, anger, guilt, relief and hope. It is normal to have a wide range of feelings during transplant that may vary from day to day. Occasionally having some of these symptoms is completely normal and expected given the situation. However, if several of these symptoms are present for more than a few days, you should mention this to the transplant staff so you can receive help. Having someone to talk to about feelings that come up during the transplant process is important so you are not alone in dealing with these feelings. We all have ways of coping with stresses in our life; some are more effective than others. A member of the psychosocial oncology team can help to identify and enhance coping resources that may be useful during the transplant process.
A common feeling for patients going through transplant is a loss of control. Giving up your own routine and independence can be frustrating, and relying on others to care for you can be difficult. We encourage you to retain as much control as possible, including making decisions for yourself, being informed, and getting your questions answered. You should continue to be independent with aspects of your daily care that are important to you.
Realistic expectations are important through the transplant process. When we set expectations we cannot meet or have inaccurate perceptions of what to expect from transplant and recovery, it adds to the stress of the process. Symptoms of anxiety and depression are more common when expectations are not met. So, for example, if you tell yourself you will be back to work in one month even though the doctor is telling you three months, and at one month you are unable to return to work because you are too tired, you are more likely to be disappointed and frustrated. Thus, it is important to set realistic goals and discuss questions, concerns and uncertainties with your transplant physician or team so you can obtain accurate information and clarify misconceptions.