Breast Cancer and Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Depression and Anxiety

Surviving Breast Cancer
2 days ago
4 min read

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A breast cancer diagnosis is more than a physical challenge—it’s an emotional one, too. Fear, anxiety, and uncertainty can be overwhelming, often leading to distress or depression. It’s okay to feel scared or frustrated, but remember that you don’t have to face it alone. Support from loved ones, counseling, and peer-to-peer groups can make all the difference.

Understanding the Link Between Breast Cancer and Mental Health

Emotional Toll of a Diagnosis

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Feelings of fear, uncertainty, and sadness are common, especially in the early stages of diagnosis and treatment planning. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Studies show that nearly 25% of breast cancer patients experience clinical depression, while up to 50% report heightened anxiety at some point.

Effects of Treatment on Mental Health

Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy can contribute to mood changes. Side effects like fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, and chronic pain may increase your feelings of helplessness and distress. Talk to your doctor to learn whether any of your prescribed medications may also impact your mental health.

Survivor’s Guilt and Fear of Recurrence

As breast cancer survivors, many of us experience guilt about surviving while others do not. Additionally, the fear of recurrence can lead to persistent anxiety, making it challenging for you to enjoy post-treatment life. Maybe you’ve experienced “scanxiety,” or high stress levels before your oncology follow-ups and scans.

Recognizing Signs of Depression and Anxiety

As someone experiencing breast cancer treatment, survivorship, and/or living with metastatic breast cancer, you can team up with your caregivers and oncology team to recognize signs of clinical depression and anxiety disorders. Some common signs include:

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or numbness
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
Changes in your appetite or weight
Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
Increased irritability, anger, or frustration
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Panic attacks or constant worrying about your health and the future

If you experience these symptoms for over two weeks, seeking professional support is essential.

5 Strategies for Addressing Mental Health Challenges

1. Seek Professional Help

Psychologists, psychiatrists, and oncology social workers specialize in cancer-related mental health challenges. Therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been proven effective in managing depression and anxiety in people experiencing breast cancer.

If you have severe symptoms, your healthcare team may recommend antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications alongside therapy. It’s important to discuss medication options with your entire oncology team as well as mental health professionals to avoid interactions with your cancer treatments.

2. Build a Support Network

Social support plays a significant role in mental well-being. Connecting with support groups can provide emotional relief and shared experiences, which can help individuals feel less isolated. Join SurvivingBreastCancer.org every Thursday for breast cancer support groups, including special meetups for metastatic breast cancer, early stage breast cancer, and inflammatory breast cancer: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/thursday-night-thrivers-meetup

3. Incorporate Mind-Body Practices

Research supports the benefits of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices in reducing stress and improving mood among people with breast cancer. These activities can offer relief from emotional distress. Join SurvivingBreastCancer.org for our numerous yoga, Pilates, meditation, writing, and art programs: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

4. Maintain Physical Activity

Engaging in regular physical activity, even in small amounts, has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in cancer patients. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate weekly exercise to improve overall well-being.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

Being kind to yourself is essential. Adjusting to life with or after breast cancer takes time, and it’s okay to have difficult days. Journaling, engaging in creative outlets, and resting can help cultivate a positive mental outlook.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health and Cancer

Many people with cancer hesitate to talk about their mental health struggles due to stigma. However, mental health is just as important as physical health. Advocacy and awareness can help change this narrative. If you or a loved one are experiencing depression or anxiety due to breast cancer, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Count On Us for Information, Resources, and Support

Breast cancer and mental health are deeply interconnected. Recognizing and addressing depression and anxiety is a crucial part of holistic cancer care. By seeking support, incorporating wellness strategies, and advocating for mental health awareness, you can improve your emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

Remember, you’re not alone. Rely on your healthcare team, loved ones, and support networks like SurvivingBreastCancer.org to help you through this time.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer, are navigating survivorship, living with metastatic breast cancer, or are the loved one of someone experiencing breast cancer, you can count on SurvivingBreastCancer.org to keep you informed. We provide educational information to help you better understand symptoms, testing, treatment options, surgery, etc., and podcasts that feature professionals, advocates, and caregivers who share valuable information.

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Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free 24/7 support.

Note: This article offers general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Make sure to discuss your options with your healthcare provider.