When battling breast cancer, maintaining a positive state of mind is key … but it’s not always easy.
In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology is sharing tips to empower all breast cancer warriors.
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 310,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. The emotional turmoil that follows can affect their physical health and psychological well-being.
“A patient’s life changes the day they learn they have breast cancer,” explains Lisa Sheppard, MD, a radiologist and Director at PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology. “The anxiety they experience around their symptoms, treatment, and mortality can be exhausting, leading to chronic stress and depression – which can negatively impact their quality of life and have physical implications.”
Stress has been linked to many adverse outcomes including tumor growth, inhibition of cell death, cancer recurrence or progression, and decreased quality of life.
“Research also shows depression can decrease survival rates,” Dr. Sheppard continues. “According to Molecular Psychology, a cohort of studies revealed depression was associated with a 30% increased risk of mortality in breast cancer patients and a 24% increased risk of breast cancer recurrence.”
Depression can make it difficult for patients to adjust and accept their diagnosis, make the most of treatment, and take advantage of support services. It can lead to unhealthy eating, cutting back on exercise, sleepless nights, and withdrawal from family and friends. Some patients turn to alcohol, nicotine, and other drugs to soothe themselves. And, some become so disheartened they refuse treatment.
“Many patients feel angry, sad, anxious, alone, and overwhelmed,” Dr. Sheppard reports. “Breast cancer brings a change in daily life as well as uncertainty about the future. Here at PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology, we offer these tips for staying emotionally and physically healthy.”
Acknowledge Your Feelings. Be kind to yourself. Allow yourself to go through the range of emotions that come along with a diagnosis and treatment. Suppressing them can lead to greater emotional distress. Document your feelings in a journal. Talk with friends and loved ones. Consider joining a breast cancer support group.
Educate Yourself. Talk to your doctors to understand your diagnosis and treatment options so you can make informed decisions. Familiarize yourself with the treatment process. Ask questions … and when you’re not clear, ask for further explanation. Online research can be helpful, but it can also be overwhelming. So be sure to access reputable online resources that deliver helpful information.
Set Realistic Expectations. Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Be gentle with yourself. Don’t pressure yourself to have your normal energy or productivity. If you have to stay in bed longer, it’s okay! Do what you need to do to take care of yourself.
Stay as Active as You Can. Exercise – which releases endorphins, your body’s natural mood elevators – can help you feel better and reduce your anxiety and depression. Even small measures – like a short walk or stretch – can be effective.
Practice Self Care. In addition to exercise, do what relaxes you and brings you joy. Read, take a bath, paint, watch TV, play music … whatever you enjoy. Yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and practicing mindfulness can calm your mind and reduce your anxiety. If you are having a difficult time managing your anxiety and depression, ask your doctor about antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications.
Lean on Your Support Systems. Seek professional counseling. Join a local or online support group. Rely on your family, friends, and other patients experiencing similar journeys. Keeping open lines of communication is important. Share your feelings and include your loved ones in your journey so they can support you.
Uncover New Strengths. Many breast cancer patients discover new strengths and resiliency during their journeys. They find a renewed focus on what matters most and a greater appreciation for the small joys in life. They develop deeper connections with loved ones. And, they recognize their strength. By reframing their perspectives from cancer patient to warrior, they empower themselves to be strong and hopeful.
“Coping with breast cancer can be challenging, but it can also life-changing positively,” Dr. Sheppard concludes. “By acknowledging the emotional journey, seeking support, and taking care of themselves physically and mentally, patients – and their families – can move forward with a new sense of hope. We at PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology are here to support all patients going through the breast cancer journey and their loved ones.”
For more information or to schedule a mammogram, visit PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology at imagecarecenters.com.
Lisa Sheppard, MD
Radiologist and Director
PINK Breast Center/ImageCare Radiology
Unlock weekly devotionals, contests, and
more in your inbox – Become a STAR 99.1 Insider today!
