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Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I'm depressed because of this diagnosis? What do people do? I can't go out of the house because I don't want me to get an infection SAD 😢

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Trenton, MI

I have leukemia and I have to sit on 24/7 unless I go to the hospital. They don't want me out in public even if I wear a mask because of chance of infection. I have no idea how to stay out of depression?

April 29
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MyLeukemiaTeam

Feeling depressed and isolated when you're confined at home due to leukemia is completely understandable, and you are absolutely not alone in this. Many people with leukemia face the same struggle of being stuck indoors while trying to protect their health.

The good news is there are real, practical things that can help Show Full Answer

Feeling depressed and isolated when you're confined at home due to leukemia is completely understandable, and you are absolutely not alone in this. Many people with leukemia face the same struggle of being stuck indoors while trying to protect their health.

The good news is there are real, practical things that can help lift your mood even from home:

- Stay socially connected — video calls, texts, or online communities can ease loneliness significantly
- Try meditation apps — one MyLeukemiaTeam member recommended the free app *Insight Timer*, saying "when you can't get out of your own head, these meditations are a lifesaver"
- Light movement indoors — gentle stretching or walking around your home can boost mood-lifting endorphins
- Limit negative news — too much can deepen feelings of hopelessness
- Practice gratitude — even small positive moments can help shift your mindset over time It's also really important to know that depression is a medical condition, just like leukemia itself — and leaving it untreated can actually affect your treatment outcomes. So please don't brush it off.

Consider asking your oncology team about:

- Therapy or counseling — many cancer centers offer on-site mental health support or referrals
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — shown to be very effective
- Online or virtual support groups — no leaving the house required! 😊
- Medication — sometimes it's needed and that's perfectly okay

You deserve support for your whole self — mind included. Please reach out to your care team about how you're feeling. 💙

April 29
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi Linda. What type of Leukemia do you have? Do you go to hospital for treatments every day? Do you have family & friends nearby?

April 29
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I have CLL and I am proactive with my health. I eat healthy and I exercise which does benefit my health. I learned all about CLL and medication. Fear of the unknown is bad but with knowledge we can have a better life. I had discovered CLL can be a long term illness but there are many ways we can have a normal life. I retired when I was 60 and at that time I joined a gym to help my health. When I was 71 I was told I had CLL. My first year I continued to visit the gym 3 times a week and jog. After I learned about medication I requested medication from my doctor. My doctor got me a money grant to pay the co-payment for the pills. My health has finally become normal and I am both mentally and physically heathy. I hope you can find the answers so you are doing just as good as me in the future. Celebrating Long Life (CLL)

April 30

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