Coping and support
A diagnosis of breast cancer may be one of the trickiest situations you will ever face. It can make you feel emotions ranging from shock and fear to anger, anxiety, or depression.
There's no "right" way to feel and act when you are dealing with cancer. With time, you will find your way of coping with your feelings. Until then, you may find comfort if you:
Learn enough about your cancer to make treatment decisions. Ask your doctor for details about your cancer — the type, stage, and treatment options. The more you know, the more comfortable you may feel when making treatment decisions.
Seek support from family and friends. Your close friends and family can provide a support system that can help you cope during treatment.
They can help you with the small tasks around the house that you may not have the energy for during treatment. And they can be there to listen when you need to talk with someone.
Connect with other people with cancer. Other people with cancer can offer unique support and insight because they understand what you are experiencing. Connect with others through support groups in your community.
Ask your doctor about support groups or contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society. Online support groups are also available at sites such as Breastcancer.org.
Take care of yourself. During your treatment, allow yourself time to rest.
Take diligent care of your body by getting enough sleep so that you wake up feeling rested, choosing a diet full of fruits and vegetables, staying as physically active as you are able, and taking time to relax.
Try to maintain at least some of your daily routine, including social activities.
Preparing for your appointment
If your doctor finds cancer from a biopsy performed in concern, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating cancer (oncologist).
Because appointments can be brief, and because there is often a lot to discuss, it is a clever idea to be well-prepared.
What you can do
Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, be sure to ask if there is anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet.
Write down any symptoms you are experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements that you are taking.
Consider taking a family member or friend along. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all the information provided during an appointment. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.
Write down questions to ask your doctor.
Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out.
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