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The Voice of People With Breast Cancer
Information
Living with Breast Cancer
Supporting Your Mental Health
Understanding Your Emotions
A breast cancer diagnosis can affect more than your physical health. It can bring a wide range of feelings that may change over time. You might feel overwhelmed after your diagnosis, fearful or frustrated during treatment, and uncertain or low after treatment ends. Understanding that these emotional changes are a normal part of the experience can help you feel more prepared and less alone as you navigate what comes next.
You will likely have both good days and hard ones. You might find it helpful to:
- Learn about your diagnosis and treatment from trusted sources
- Talk to people you trust about how you are feeling
- Join a support group to connect with others who understand
- Write in a journal or blog to help sort through your thoughts
- Be kind to yourself: rest, eat well, stay active, and do things you enjoy
You do not need to feel positive or strong all the time. It is okay to have hard days. If your emotions start to feel too heavy or make daily life hard, talk to your doctor. They can suggest counselling, medication, or connect you with a social worker or mental health professional.
When to Reach Out for Help
Sometimes, emotional distress can turn into anxiety or depression. Reach out to a health professional if you notice:
- Feeling sad or hopeless for a long time
- Losing interest in things you usually enjoy
- Trouble sleeping, eating, or concentrating
- Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable most of the time
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If you are having thoughts of self-harm, it is important to seek help right away. You can contact your local distress centre, go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911. In Canada, you can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7.
Finding Support
Support can come from many places: family, friends, healthcare providers, or people who have been through something similar. Talking with someone who understands can help you feel less alone.
Helpful resources include:
The Canadian Cancer Society has a database that can be used to find local support services in your area. You can access it below:
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About CBCN
CBCN strives to voice the views and concerns of breast cancer patients through education, advocacy activities, and the promotion of information sharing.
Canadian Breast Cancer Network
185 Somerset St. West Suite 318, Ottawa, ON Canada K2P 0J2
Tel: 613-230-3044
Toll-free: 1-800-685-8820
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