A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis has the potential to have an impact on your mental health and wellbeing. Reaching out to friends, family, healthcare experts, and other support services can help you cope with the challenges of your diagnosis and treatment.
Following a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, it is typical to feel a variety of feelings such as stress, anxiety, fear, uncertainty, and sadness. These feelings may have a negative impact on your mental and emotional wellbeing.
When discussing your treatment choices with your doctor, keep in mind that treating the physical symptoms of metastatic breast cancer is only one component of a holistic approach.
It’s equally critical to consider the mental and emotional consequences of your diagnosis and therapy. This could improve your general quality of life and capacity to adhere to your treatment plan.
Here are 12 suggestions for dealing with the problems of metastatic breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
1. Develop a supportive care team.
Your cancer treatment team may include several doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers.
It’s critical that you feel safe and supported by your care team members.
If you have difficulty communicating with any of your care team members or are dissatisfied with the care they give, you should consider seeing a different doctor or other healthcare professional.
Please let your care team know if you have any questions or reservations regarding your recommended treatment plan. They may suggest changes to your treatment plan or refer you to another professional for care.
2. Allow yourself to process.
A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis can be distressing. You may not feel prepared to make treatment options or discuss your diagnosis with others straight away.
Allow yourself time to assimilate new knowledge and hard emotions.
3. Consult with a patient navigator.
A patient navigator is a registered nurse, social worker, or community health worker who can assist you with the practical aspects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
For example, they may help you:
. Access social and financial support programs in your region
. Learn how to pay for treatment and maximize your health insurance benefits.
. surmount barriers to treatment access, such as lack of transportation or child care.
. Learn about your access to workplace accommodations and other legal rights.
You may also find it beneficial to consult with a financial consultant, lawyer, or other professional who can assist you with the financial and legal elements of your treatment.
Getting professional help with managing the practical aspects of your breast cancer diagnosis may help minimize your stress.
4. Move around regularly.
Breast cancer symptoms or treatment side effects can make regular exercise difficult, but finding methods to stay active can benefit both your physical and mental health.
Regular exercise may help relieve stress, exhaustion, and other symptoms or treatment side effects.
Your doctor may send you to a physical therapist who can assist you in developing an exercise plan.
They might suggest low-impact activities like strolling, water aerobics, or moderate stretching. They can also help you determine which higher-impact activities are appropriate for you.
5. Find joy and meaning.
What brings you happiness in life? What makes your life meaningful or full of purpose?
Finding sources of joy and significance can help bring comfort and build resilience.
You might also find it beneficial to create a gratitude habit. Consider writing down three things you are grateful for each day. These could be simple joys, such as a ripe piece of fruit for breakfast or a pleasant talk with a friend.
Developing a thankfulness habit can help you realize modest sources of happiness and satisfaction.
6. Consult a mental health expert.
A mental health expert can assist you in dealing with your diagnosis by listening to your worries and developing techniques to handle stress, body image issues, and other difficult events.
They can teach you how to explain and discuss your problem with friends, family members, and others.
Inform your doctor or mental health professional if you believe you are suffering from depression, anxiety, or another mental health problem. They may recommend a mix of medicine and therapy to address it.
Consider seeking a referral to a counselor who specializes in cancer support.
You can also utilize an internet directory, such as FindaPsychologist.org, to find a counselor close
7. Participate in a support group
Support groups allow you to share your experiences with others who are facing similar issues. Some groups meet in person, while others communicate online or over the phone.
You can contact a support group via a non-profit organization, such as:
.The American Cancer Society Trusted source: Breastcancer.org
.National Breast Cancer Foundation
.Cancer Care Komen.org