Five strategies for managing mental health while battling breast cancer

 

A patient might suffer a great deal after learning that they have metastatic breast cancer, both physically and emotionally. Overwhelming emotional upheaval may result from the weight of doubt and worry brought on by an illness that is developing and potentially fatal.

Patients experience a wide variety of complicated emotions along the way, necessitating thorough assistance to help them deal with the complexities of metastatic breast cancer and maintain their mental health in the face of several obstacles.

When attempting to manage one’s mental health, the treatment regimen for metastatic breast cancer and its side effects might add still another level of complexity.

At the conclusion of chemotherapy, 52 percent of breast cancer patients report experiencing at least moderate anxiety, according to research. However, there are a number of elements, from seeking assistance when necessary to cutting-edge therapeutic alternatives, that may help you manage your anxiety as per your requirements.

Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist at Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital in Hyderabad, Dr. Krishna Mohan MVT Breast cancer therapy often causes stress and anxiety for patients, whether it is due to numerous hospital visits, physical dysmorphia brought on by hair loss or breast enlargement, or persistent worry of recurrence or death. Nearly 60% of patients with advanced breast cancer are eligible for at least one kind of targeted treatment.

When this information is effectively used, a group of patients may forgo traditional treatment for a considerable amount of time. Many breast cancer patients’ quality of life and chances of survival may be increased with the proper selection of advanced treatments; patients can also escape the physical and psychological strains brought on by conventional therapy thanks to improved treatment options.

In order to manage their stress and anxiety while coping with metastatic breast cancer, people might try the following strategies:

Choose the best course of action for you: Every kind of therapy has associated negative consequences. For instance, losing one’s hair as a result of chemotherapy might result in worry.

Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a therapy strategy that supports one’s psychological wellbeing. A thorough discussion of treatment choices with one’s doctor is essential. This will help patients understand the treatments intended to lessen the impact on their mental health and provide them insight into what to expect throughout the course of their therapy.

Seek Professional Support: Consulting with trained therapists or counselors may result in the provision of priceless emotional support and coping mechanisms suited to specific requirements. By providing a secure environment to vent feelings and discover more effective coping techniques, they may assist patients in navigating their emotions, concerns, and doubts.

Engage in Support Groups: Making connections with others going through comparable struggles may be inspiring and reassuring. Patients may share their stories, swap coping mechanisms, and get encouragement from those who actually understand this path in support groups, which provide them a feeling of community.

Try meditation: Mindfulness is the ability to remain in the present moment without passing judgment. You may lessen tension and anxiety by paying attention to your breath, your environment, and your body. You may maintain your equilibrium and composure through trying situations by using mindfulness practices. When you feel overloaded, try doing yoga, mindfulness meditation, or just taking a few deep breaths.

Practice self-care: During this time, it’s important to look after your physical and emotional needs. Consume nutritious meals, engage in moderate exercise, and obtain adequate sleep. Think of calming activities like reading, listening to music, or having a bath that will make you feel wonderful. Self-care activities may lift your spirits and enhance your general wellbeing.

Keep educated but avoid information overload: It’s important to remain knowledgeable about one’s disease and available treatments, but prolonged exposure to overwhelming information may make people feel more anxious. Unnecessary stress may be reduced by striking a balance and relying on reliable sources as well as your doctor’s advice.

It’s normal to have ups and downs when coping with breast cancer since it’s a journey. Always remember to treat yourself gently and to take each day as it comes.