Breast Cancer and Mental Health

By Sharla Gayle Patterson, MD, MBA

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, second only to certain types of skin cancer. Currently, the average risk of a woman in the United States developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 13%. This means there is a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer.1

It’s not uncommon to experience a wide range of emotions following a breast cancer diagnosis, including stress, anxiety, fear, uncertainty, and depression. These emotions can have a strong effect on your mental health. As you discuss your treatment options with your doctor, keep in mind that treating the physical symptoms of breast cancer is just one part of a comprehensive plan. It’s important to also consider the mental and emotional effects of your diagnosis. Not only will it improve your overall quality of life, but it could also help you as you go through the treatment process.

Taking care of your mental health and well-being after being diagnosed with breast cancer can help improve your quality of life — especially if you’re not feeling like yourself anymore. It may be helpful to consider mental health support services if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Changes in your overall mood, such as feeling very sad or constantly stressed out or anxious
• Lack of joy or interest in activities you normally enjoy
• Changes in appetite that result in weight loss or gain
• Difficulty getting out of bed because of a lack of energy and not because of breast cancertreatment side effects
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing
• Using alcohol or drugs to reduce stress
• Noticing an increase in aches and pains, including headaches and stomachaches2

Ways to support your mental health while living with breast cancer

Visit a mental health professional
A mental health professional can help you cope with your diagnosis on many levels. A professional can do more than just listen to your concerns. They can also teach you how to explain your illness to your children or how to deal with your family’s response. In addition, they can provide tips on controlling stress and teach you problem-solving strategies.

Be open with your family and friends
It’s important to avoid hiding from family and friends during this stressful time. Be open about your emotions and fears with them. Remember that it’s okay to feel frustrated or angry. Family and friends are there to listen and help you manage those sentiments.

A 2016 study found that women with breast cancer who are more socially isolated experience an increase in cancer-related mortality. Try not to keep your feelings bottled up. Reach out to your loved ones for support.3

Join a support group
Support groups are helpful because you get to talk to other people who are experiencing some of the same things that you’re going through. These groups can be in-person, online, or over the phone. Many support groups are tailored to your age or stage of breast cancer treatment or recovery.

Make your mental health a priority
Breast cancer, regardless of the stage, can be a scary diagnosis. You may feel as if your life is slipping away. It is normal to feel sad, anxious, and even depressed; however, it is also important to prioritize your mental health just as you prioritize your breast cancer treatment plan.

Avoid negative coping mechanisms such as alcohol, food, and drugs that can mask your emotions. Taking care of your mental health not only means going to therapy and joining support groups, but it also means practicing self-care, which includes moving your body, sleeping, eating whole foods, doing things that you enjoy, splurging on a wig (if you are struggling with hair loss), and setting boundaries with others. Asking your friends and family to be included in your therapy sessions and self-care routines can also help you build stronger relationships and help them understand what you are experiencing.

Magnolia Breast Center – The Trusted Choice for Breast Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Southwest Florida
Breast cancer is a serious, life-threatening disease that needs to be detected and treated at the earliest stage possible. Whether you want to know your risk of developing cancer, get yourself checked for cancer, or get treated for cancer, the experts at Magnolia Breast Center can help you.

We have extensive experience in treating breast cancer patients – including highly complicated cases and patients with an advanced stage of cancer. We can determine the severity of your condition, take your unique needs and preferences into account, and devise a customized treatment plan to achieve a positive outcome.

Call our dedicated breast care center today at 239-758-PINK (7465) or contact us online and schedule an appointment with one of our experienced breast surgeons.

MAGNOLIA BREAST CANCER
3530 Kraft Rd, Suite 202, Naples, FL 34105
239.758.PINK (7465)
magnoliabc.com

 

 

References:
1. Breast cancer and mental health, Psychology Today. Sussex Publishers.
Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-is-
state-mind/202010/breast-cancer-and-mental-health.
2. How breast cancer can affect mental health. Available at:
https://www.breastcancer.org/managing-life/taking-care-of-mental-
health/how-breast-cancer-affects-mental-health.
3. Cafasso, J. (2020) How to support your mental health with metastatic breast
cancer, Healthline. Healthline Media. Available at:
https://www.healthline.com/health/metastatic-breast-cancer/mental-
health-support#be-open-to-loved-ones.