The Hidden Emotional Toll of Breast cancer - and how to cope
A breast cancer diagnosis alters one’s life beyond just the physical impact. Along with the treatments and appointments is the unseen burden of uncertainty, fear, and disruption. While these emotions are completely natural, managing them without getting overwhelmed is an essential part of healing.
Acknowledging the Emotional Journey
The primary step is allowing oneself to feel. Many patients try to maintain a brave front and positivity, believing that to do otherwise is to lose the battle. However, it is psychologically healthy to express one’s emotions, whether that be in conversation, writing, or simply thinking. Remember, acceptance is a form of courage.
It is important to not shoulder blame. Almost all patients ask the question, “What did I do wrong?” The reality is that cancer is a complex disease with no clarity on why it affects one person and not another. What will help in the healing process is that you treat yourself with self-compassion and guilt-free nurturing
During this journey, understand that you have control over your narrative. You choose when and how to discuss your diagnosis. If you need time before opening up, that’s perfectly acceptable. When you feel ready, you guide your loved ones on how to help you, which may ease the communication process.
Reconnecting with Body and Mind
Integrating mind–body practices into your daily routine is one way to reconnect with your mind and body. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness meditation, and guided imagery are simple exercises that reduce the body’s stress response. They help to restore balance, and even a few minutes every day can be a meaningful improvement.
Moving the body is just as important as mind–body practices. Gentle exercises, like walking, yoga, or tai chi, relieve tension, uplift mood, and lighten the mind. Pay close attention to the body and be as active as feels comfortable.
Healing can also be achieved by finding joy in the simple things and hobbies you already enjoy. Activities like reading, painting, listening to music, and gardening reconnect with
the mind. Your sense of self is the part of you that remains unscathed by illness. Creative activities help to take your mind off the illness.
Creating a Circle of Support
By proactively working with your medical team to manage side effects, you can significantly reduce both emotional and physical stress, and by supporting your body through attentive self-care, regular meals, and structured appointment times, you can help calm your mind and gradually restore a sense of control over your daily life.
Alongside conventional medicine, certain complementary therapies like acupuncture, aromatherapy, and art and music therapy can facilitate emotional wellbeing and mitigate stress. However, always check with your physician before pursuing any of these therapies.
Finally, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. Psycho-oncologists and cancer counsellors are trained to help with the emotional burdens of cancer, and support groups can offer an additional outlet and a sense of community, helping to combat feelings of isolation.
Breast cancer is not just a physical battle — it’s an emotional journey. By embracing your feelings, caring for your body and mind, and allowing yourself to lean on others, you can navigate this path with a positive spirit, grace, and hope
By Dr. Karishma Kirti, Consultant Breast Specialist and Oncoplastic Surgeon
