Emotional wellbeing

People often describe breast cancer as an emotional rollercoaster. You may find you have many ups and downs throughout your experience with breast cancer. Changes in body image or self-esteem, fear of breast cancer coming back, anxiety and depression are just some of the emotional effects reported by people who have had breast cancer. 

It’s not uncommon to feel that your emotional and mental health take a lot longer to recover than your body does. This can be worse if you are dealing with other life challenges at the same time.  

While it may be challenging emotionally at first, many people tell us it gets easier over time. 

The “new” you 

A diagnosis of breast cancer is different for everyone, no two people’s circumstances are the same. There’s no rule for how to handle emotions, you have to do what’s right for you, and that may change over time. Breast cancer can bring about many changes in your life.  

When first diagnosed with breast cancer, a whirlwind of emotions such as shock, fear, anxiety and feeling like your world is turning upside down can be all consuming. Trying to keep everything together and balance emotions can be difficult. In those early days and weeks after a diagnosis, it may be helpful to read about what has helped others: Getting through the first few weeks. 

Coping with treatment, side effects and the many other activities of daily living with breast cancer can be challenging. Having a changed body shape, weight gain or loss, hair loss and memory difficulties can all affect your confidence and self-esteem. Some people also have to manage other issues. Young women, for instance, may have to come to terms with the fact that treatment may have reduced their fertility, affected their ability to have a baby, or caused early onset of menopause.  

Complex emotional, spiritual and existential issues can also arise. It’s normal to feel anxious, scared or even depressed when treatment ends. 

Once your treatment is over, you may feel different about yourself and your relationships. Taking the time to get used to the “new” you is an important part of your breast cancer experience. In fact, many people tell us that they have found new approaches to life and have re-prioritised their values and focus after their breast cancer.

Support from family, friends, neighbours and other people in your life – as well as emotional support from professionals – can be important in helping you cope. There are many avenues of support available, whether online, with a health professional or in a support group with others who have breast cancer. It’s important to seek out support when you feel you need it.

Fear of recurrence 

Many people who have had breast cancer treatment worry that their cancer may return. This is a normal reaction to breast cancer and can be a cause of stress and anxiety for some people. 

The article Fear of cancer recurrence includes more information on common worries that may follow breast cancer treatment and offers advice from health professionals on how you can manage this.  

Staying well 

Here are some suggestions that may help you stay well emotionally: 

• Talk to others – sharing stories with those who have been there before can bring comfort and support. Joining a support group can help connect you with others who share a similar experience. 
• Try complementary therapies such as relaxation and meditation. 
• Keep a journal of your experiences – writing about your feelings can be a powerful release. 
• Try to exercise regularly – it can help to reduce anxiety, stress and depression. 
• If you are feeling anxious or stressed, talk to your GP or breast care nurse about your feelings. 
• If stress, anxiety, sadness or anger become intense or continue for a long time, you may be experiencing depression. It is important to let your GP or a member of your treating team know about how you are feeling. Treatment and support are available and can help. You may benefit from talking to a health professional, such as a psychologist or counsellor. Talk to your doctor about whether you are eligible for a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan, which entitles you to several Medicare-subsidised appointments in a calendar year with a clinical psychologist, appropriately trained GP, social worker or clinical occupational therapist.