The Truth About the Emotional Impact of Breast Cancer

1. The Truth About the Emotional Impact of Breast Cancer When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, the effects are felt in more ways than one. The emotional impact of breast cancer is deep, as breast cancer affects every part of a woman’s life. However, there is more to the emotional effects of breast cancer than what is commonly assumed. Emotions and Breast Cancer Oklahoma It may be commonly thought that most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer Oklahoma just feel sad. However, the truth is that the emotions a woman may feel are far more complex. Many may feel sad, but there is an array of emotions that a woman may experience upon diagnosis and throughout treatment. A few of these emotions include: Anger ● Loneliness ● Grief ● Confusion ● Anxiety ● Frustration ● Fear ● These feelings impact each individual differently. Of course, not every emotion is negative; women may experience a great deal of positive emotions as well, such as peace, hope, and comfort. Whether positive or negative, each of these emotions directly impacts every other aspect of a woman’s journey with breast cancer. How Do Emotions Play a Role in the Journey Through Breast Cancer? Emotions play a critical role in a woman’s battle with breast cancer. Women who experience these emotions may be impacted socially, spiritually, and physically. Socially

2. Breast cancer emotional support from a community is essential to a woman’s treatment. However, women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer may become depressed, causing them to isolate themselves. They may refuse to see family and friends or attend their support group meetings. Spiritually Women dealing with the negative emotions that come with breast cancer may experience spiritual effects as well. They may feel hopeless, lose faith, and stop seeking guidance from spiritual mentors. Physically When depression and other negative emotions take hold, it can impact a woman’s physical health. Some women may eat poorly or not enough. Likewise, they may feel too tired, both emotionally and from treatment, to exercise and may be unable to sleep well. How to Support Your Loved One with Breast Cancer Oklahoma Every emotion a woman feels, whether positive or negative, is understandable and completely okay. Giving your loved one breast cancer emotional support can help her throughout her journey. Emotional support can look in many different ways: Show Up for Her A breast cancer diagnosis often comes with loneliness, as many women feel like no one understands what they are going through. Show up for your loved one by regularly calling, sending letters, or paying her a visit if she allows. This lets her know that she is seen by those who deeply care. Validate Her Emotions There is no right or wrong way to respond to a breast cancer diagnosis. If your loved one chooses to share her feelings with you, it is important to validate her emotions respectfully. Listen and do not offer up solutions unless she asks for them. Recommend Resources Your loved one may not know where to turn for help when it comes to the emotional impact of breast cancer. Do your research and recommend resources to help her throughout her treatment and thereafter. Professional counseling and local support groups are just some of

3. the resources available to women battling breast cancer. Give Her A Gift Gifts can brighten anyone’s day. Consider sending your loved one a custom cancer care package with items that will be useful during treatment. Likewise, include some of her favorite items, such as tasty snacks, a new book to read, or a cozy blanket. Experiencing the Emotional Impact of Breast Cancer? Breast cancer Oklahoma leaves scars on the heart as well as the body. If you or a loved one are battling breast cancer and need emotional support, consider joining our community at Project31. We have various support groups and events to connect women to a community that understands the toll that breast cancer takes. Please reach out or visit our calendar to find a support group.