Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of MyMyelomaTeam 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.

Does myeloma make you depressed tired and not wanting to do anything?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Brownsville, TX
December 8, 2025
 · 
Reactions
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Talk to his Oncologist about this. He can perhaps put him on an anti-depressant which could help him immensely.

December 10, 2025
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

My husband is like that. I don’t know how to help him, any advice?

December 8, 2025
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

If feel like this right now. I need to get up and get going. My mind is on an appeal. So. I need to get over it because I cannot go back to work

December 11, 2025
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

If he is physically able to do so, start him on some type of exercise program. Light weight training, band exercises, easy isometrics, and walking. It helps take your mind off of this accursed disease and you're doing your mind and body a good service. Less TV, more online games. I play spades, hearts, pinochle, gin rummy, backgammon and chess (not so good at chess, but getting better). After the holidays, I'm going to take some painting lessons, (Van Gogh I'm not), but why not? Good luck,convince him it's for the best.

December 8, 2025
MyMyelomaTeam

Does myeloma cause depression, fatigue, and loss of motivation?

Yes, myeloma can absolutely cause these feelings. Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms, and it's different from regular tiredness—it doesn't go away with rest and can be overwhelming.

There are several physical reasons for Show Full Answer

Does myeloma cause depression, fatigue, and loss of motivation?

Yes, myeloma can absolutely cause these feelings. Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms, and it's different from regular tiredness—it doesn't go away with rest and can be overwhelming.

There are several physical reasons for myeloma-related fatigue:

- Anemia: Myeloma cells interfere with bone marrow function, reducing red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body
- High cytokine levels: These immune system proteins cause persistent inflammation and exhaustion similar to fighting off a virus
- Pain: Chronic pain from myeloma itself contributes to exhaustion

A MyMyelomaTeam member shared: "I never realized how exhausting it is to do laundry. I keep having to stop and rest my back." Depression and anxiety are also very common with myeloma. People with chronic conditions like myeloma are at higher risk for developing depression than those without chronic illness.

Depression symptoms may include:
- Feeling sad or worried most of the time
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Feeling tired or slow
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things

The good news is that treating mental health symptoms can actually help improve your physical symptoms too. Talk to your healthcare provider about both your fatigue and mood changes—they can work with mental health professionals to help you manage both aspects of your health.

December 8, 2025

Related Questions

View All

Multiple myeloma. Does it cause anything to do with mucus at all

A MyMyelomaTeam Subscriber asked a question 💭
July 22

8 Facts About Myeloma Treatments
Quiz: Do You Know the Causes of Fatigue in Multiple Myeloma?
How Good Boundaries Make Life With Myeloma Easier