Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A Focus on the Mental Health Impact of a Cancer Diagnosis
Meet Jessica!
Practice Manager at My-Therapist and Breast Cancer Survivor!
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about the most common cancer in women worldwide. While many discussions focus on early detection and physical treatments, the emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is equally important. At My-Therapist, we are committed to supporting individuals and families affected by breast cancer, not only through their physical journey but also by addressing the mental health concerns that arise from diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
The Initial Impact of a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
For many, the first moment of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis feels surreal, accompanied by a wide range of emotions—shock, fear, anxiety, sadness, and even anger. For the individual, hearing the word “cancer” can often bring about a deep fear of the unknown. It’s common to immediately wonder, “What will happen to me?” This overwhelming anxiety comes from the uncertainty about treatment results, physical changes, and how life may unfold in the future.
However, the mental health impact of a cancer diagnosis extends far beyond the individual. Partners, children, parents, and close friends all share the emotional weight of the diagnosis. Family members may feel powerless, unsure how to support their loved one effectively. Their fear, often left unspoken, can mirror the patient's own anxiety about their future and possible outcomes. The sense of helplessness and confusion can deeply impact family dynamics, straining relationships as roles within the household may begin to shift due to the need for caregiving or financial adjustments.
In addition to personal relationships, professional life often comes into play. The stress of managing work while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can create mental strain for both the individual and their colleagues. Employers may worry about how to support the individual while ensuring productivity, and the person diagnosed with cancer may feel guilty for missing work or being less able to contribute due to their health. They might also face concerns about job security, health benefits, and financial stability, adding an extra layer of stress to an already overwhelming situation.
The Long-Term Mental Health Concerns
For many individuals, the emotional impact of breast cancer does not fade after treatment ends. Long after remission or recovery, there are long-term psychological challenges that continue to affect survivors, their families, and their workplace.
Fear of Recurrence: Even after treatment, the fear of cancer returning can weigh heavily on a survivor’s mental state. This fear can cause heightened anxiety, particularly around follow-up doctor visits, routine scans, or when experiencing any unfamiliar physical symptom. Survivors may live in a constant state of hyper-vigilance about their health, making it difficult to relax or feel secure in their recovery.
Body Image and Identity: Many breast cancer treatments involve surgery, such as a mastectomy or lumpectomy, which can have a profound impact on how a person views themselves. Physical changes can lead to struggles with self-esteem and identity. For many survivors, it takes time to reconcile their sense of femininity or self-worth with their new physical appearance. Body image issues are also not isolated to the individual but can affect intimacy within relationships, creating emotional distance between partners.
Depression and PTSD: Studies have shown that cancer survivors are at increased risk for depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the intense focus during active treatment helps some stay mentally grounded, the emotional toll may surface later, once the initial crisis has passed. The return to "normal" life can sometimes trigger depressive episodes, as the individual may feel isolated in their experience or uncertain about their future.
Family Dynamics: For families, the emotional and logistical adjustments during treatment often linger. Caregivers can experience burnout or guilt for feeling overwhelmed. Relationships between parents and children may have shifted, with children taking on more responsibilities during treatment. The long-term challenge lies in renegotiating roles and healing from the emotional exhaustion of caregiving and worry.
Workplace Anxiety: The workplace may remain a source of stress, even after recovery. Individuals often worry about being seen as less capable or being perceived differently by colleagues and superiors. The pressure to return to full productivity quickly can exacerbate stress, while balancing follow-up treatments and health concerns creates ongoing anxiety. For many, there is a need for open, supportive dialogue between the employee and employer to navigate this difficult transition.
Supporting Mental Health Along the Journey
At My-Therapist, we recognize that the mental health journey following a breast cancer diagnosis is deeply personal, unique, and complex. We provide therapy services for individuals and families facing this life-changing experience, helping them navigate not only the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis and treatment but also the long-term mental health concerns that follow.
Whether it's counseling to help manage anxiety, support in navigating relationships during and after treatment, or providing a safe space for survivors and their families to heal together, we are here. Let this Breast Cancer Awareness Month serve as a reminder that mental health is an essential part of the healing process. If you or a loved one is struggling with the emotional toll of breast cancer, reach out for support. You don't have to face this journey alone.
Together, we can bring hope, resilience, and healing to the fight against breast cancer.
Our Services At My-Therapist In Wake Forest, NC.
At My-Therapist Inc, we offer a range of therapy services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients:
Individual Therapy: Personalized one-on-one sessions for individuals aged 16 and up to address various mental health concerns, personal growth, and life challenges.
Couples Therapy: Specialized sessions for couples aiming to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationship.
Family Therapy: Therapy sessions for families to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger, healthier family dynamics.
Virtual Therapy: Convenient and accessible virtual therapy sessions available to clients in both North Carolina and Georgia, ensuring you can receive support from the comfort of your home.
In-Person Therapy: Face-to-face therapy sessions available in our Wake Forest, NC office, providing a welcoming and safe environment for your therapeutic journey.
We are dedicated to offering compassionate and effective therapy services to support your mental health and well-being. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
Begin Therapy In Wake Forest, NC Or Virtually Anywhere In North Carolina and Georgia
Our team would be honored to offer you and your partner the relationship support you need. We offer couples therapy from our Wake Forest, NC-based practice and across North Cairolina & Georgia via online therapy. You can meet with a caring therapist by following these simple steps today:
1. Book your initial therapy session.
2. Meet with a caring therapist.
3. Start receiving the support you and your partner deserve.
Other Mental Health Services Offered At My-Therapist In Wake Forest, NC
In addition to Couples Therapy, we offer Individual Therapy, Sex and Intimacy Therapy, Couples Intensive Therapy, Teen Therapy, Couples Retreats and Workshops, Coaching, Grief, Family Conflict, PreMarital Counseling & Coaching, Anxiety & Depression, Teen Therapy 16 & up, Faith Based Counseling