John, when those scary or depressing thoughts come, try just giving them a time limit. Like maybe 2 minutes or less and then switch to more positive thoughts. Instead of thinking about the negative things that could happen, think of all the good things that could happen - and you have already listed some of the good things! It will get better.
Charm - that's a great article! It really helps to be aware or how much depression plays a part in oral cancer recovery. It is important to remember, too - that depression is temporary. Suicide is permanent. There are things one can do about depression, and that's the good news.