It's essential to recognize signs such as sleep disturbances, appetite changes, fatigue, irritability and physical symptoms. It's essential to consult a doctor, as medication or therapy may be necessary for effective mental health management.

• Have a consistent support system (family, friends or even pets) and spend time with them.
• Share your feelings and fears, or those of your family members; listen carefully to each other's feelings.
• Maintain your social circle and activities, if possible.
• Do things that calm your mind and make you feel good; for example, breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, mindfulness.
• Keep moving: it's natural for sufferers to cut back on their activities, but it's been shown that this can be counterproductive. Regular exercise reduces pain and fatigue. Staying as active as possible can improve your mood and contribute to long-term physical and emotional well-being.
• Get enough good sleep: chronic sleep deprivation can be a risk factor for deteriorating mental health. For advice on improving sleep, consult your doctor.
• Avoid repressing your emotions.
• Don't force yourself or others to talk if you or they aren't ready yet.

? Possible questions to ask your doctor:

• Can I take medication to treat my mood swings or anxiety?
• Are there hospital support groups?
• Who can I talk to when I'm feeling down?

Sometimes, preventive measures are not enough. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you suspect or notice feelings of depression or anxiety. Medication and talk therapy can help prevent the overwhelming impact of negative thoughts. Ask your doctor for a referral to a psychiatrist or psychotherapist.

! Fatigue and COPD

One of the main reasons for fatigue is the increased effort required to breathe, due to damage to the lungs. COPD leads to narrowing of the airways and loss of elasticity in lung tissue, making it harder for air to get in and out of the lungs. As a result, the body has to work harder to obtain the oxygen it needs, leading to fatigue.

COPD sufferers often fall into a vicious circle. The disease and its treatment lead to fatigue, which makes people reluctant to engage in activities, preferring instead to rest. However, when you remain inactive for too long and move little, your muscles are not stimulated, leading to a gradual decline in physical fitness and efforts requiring more and more energy.

It's important to strike a balance between activity and rest. To achieve this, it's best to try and find your own rhythm for your daily activities. Avoid moments of sudden stress and make sure you relax sufficiently.

? Possible questions to ask your doctor:

• What causes the fatigue I feel as a result of my COPD treatment?
• Are there any specific treatments or medications that can help reduce my fatigue?
• Are there any changes in my diet or lifestyle that can help me fight fatigue?
• How can I plan my daily activities so that I use my energy as efficiently as possible?
• Are there any specific symptoms of fatigue that I should watch out for and report immediately?
• Are there any specific exercises or physiotherapies that can help me improve my energy levels and general well-being?