DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Patients with malignant disease receiving chemotherapy regimen for at least 6 weeks but less than 6 months, and continuing concurrent chemotherapy for at least 3-4 weeks OR Patients with malignant disease receiving hormonal therapy for at least 3 months prior to study, and continuing during entire study Profile of Mood States (POMS) Fatigue Subscale score of 14 or higher POMS Depression Subscale score of 13 or less