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Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Issues when experiencing Breast Cancer

by | Apr 2, 2024 | Support

Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Issues when experiencing Breast Cancer

Who Am I ?

Cancer can cause significant adaptations in a victims’ life. All your expectations of your life, thoughts, relationships, spirituality, and body image are changed. Several studies I’ve researched found similar outcomes.

The studies all cite depression and disappointment as the leading emotions. This is followed by fear, hopelessness, sadness, anxiety, nervousness, and irritability. Other studies included shock and denial, frequently followed by depression, anxiety and/or anger. I was concerned, but not shocked to see that positive thoughts and optimism had very low ranking. Well, we know what must be down. INCREASE POSITIVITY RATINGS!

Depression

It is estimated that 70% of cancer survivors experience depression at some point.  It’s normal to feel sad or down. But these feelings are temporary, lasting 2-3 weeks. If these symptoms last longer or interfere with your life, seek counseling.
Look for these symptoms of depression provided by BreastCancer.org.
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Feeling intense sadness

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Crying all or most of the time

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Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy

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Feeling worthless, helpless, hopeless, or numb
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Isolating yourself from others or being unable to accept help
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Lacking any motivation to do daily activities
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Having difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering information
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Lacking the energy to stay on track with treatments and doctor’s appointments
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Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Grief

Who can blame breast cancer patients for experiencing grief. Please understand this is a temporary stage you are passing through. For a better understanding look at my post 8. Grief Model Applied to Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Fear of Recurrence

For the most helpful information on this topic and tips you can use to calm your thoughts and behavioral implements you can make, please read my post 7. Controlling Your Fear of What’s to come. Hopefully, you will find the tips helpful!
Body Image 
Cancer survivors who have experienced a major change in physical function can suffer from a lack of self-esteem. A negative body image can affect your desire for intimacy and social interaction. Honest and open communication with loved ones can minimize negative feelings.

Spirituality

Research suggests that spirituality improves quality of life through a strong social support network, provided adaptive coping, lessened depression, and provided better physical functioning.

Survivor guilt

Some people wonder why they survived cancer when others don’t. If you suffer from a prolonged sense of guilt, seek help from your psychotherapist, clergy member, or support group.

Relationships

You may find that friends, coworkers and family members treat you differently after a cancer diagnosis. They may avoid you or won’t discuss your cancer. Don’t worry! They just don’t know what to say to not offend you. Or they are afraid of how they would confront the same demons you did. It can help to seek new relationships with other cancer survivors who know what you’ve been through.
Although Difficult!
Meet the Challenges Where They Are!