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The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

Antidepressants and cancer

If depression or anxiety is severe or doesn’t settle over time, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication can be very effective, in combination with other treatments such as relaxation therapy.

There’s no evidence that antidepressants are addictive, and most people will only require this medication for a few months, but sometimes it can be longer depending on the individual person’s situation. Most of the medication for anxiety will only be used for a few weeks. Needing medication doesn’t mean a person is ‘weak’ or ‘crazy’, and many people who have taken medication feel so much better that they wish they had started treatment earlier.

Last updated 11 November 2024
Cancer Australia

Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to benefit all Australians affected by cancer, and their families and carers. Cancer Australia aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer by leading and coordinating national, evidence-based interventions across the continuum of care.

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