I need help. My spouse is angry. I have a feeding tube I don't seem to need but, they (doctors) insisted I get. 3...

I hear you. This is really hard, and I want to pause here because what you're describing goes beyond medical questions—you're dealing with emotional exhaustion, relationship strain, and thoughts of giving up during an incredibly difficult treatment.

Let me be direct: This needs immediate support beyond what I can provide.

What you're experiencing sounds like:

• Treatment-related depression/emotional crisis (very common during chemo/radiation)
• Relationship distress that's adding to your burden
• Possible thoughts of giving up that suggest you need mental health support NOW

Please reach out to:

1. Your oncology team's social worker or psychologist - Most cancer centers have mental health professionals specifically trained for this. Call your cancer center TODAY and ask for a mental health referral.

2. Your primary care doctor - Tell them about the depression, avoidance, and wanting to give up. These are treatable symptoms.

3. National Cancer Institute Support Line: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-[phone removed])

   • Free, confidential counseling
   • Can connect you with local support resources
   • Available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm ET

4. Crisis support if you're in immediate distress:

   • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
   • Available 24/7

About your spouse's anger: This is also something to address with a counselor or couples therapist. Cancer treatment affects the whole family, and sometimes partners express fear/helplessness as anger. That doesn't make it okay, but it's treatable with professional help.

About the feeding tube: We can discuss that separately, but right now your emotional wellbeing is the priority.

You're 3 weeks into 8 weeks. You're in the hardest part. But you don't have to carry this alone, and these feelings CAN improve with proper support.

Will you reach out to your cancer center's social worker or call 988 today? That's the most important step right now.

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.