Medically Reviewed by Rajesh Bajaj, MD
Hearing the words “You have breast cancer” (or any kind of cancer) can be emotionally destructive. You hear the words but your mind is overcome by a tidal wave of questions and feelings. Denial. Helplessness. What if’s? What now’s? Even “take charge” people can be thrown into shock and depression – their thoughts and lives brought to a screeching halt.
Here are some practical tips to help you take back control over your emotions and your life after your doctor has confirmed a breast cancer diagnosis. Start with the one important realization:
Cancer is survivable. Caught early, breast cancer patients have a 5-year 100% survival rate. Even women with Stage Four, where cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and other organs, have a 5-year survival rate of 20%. With that information, here is help on what to do NOW.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many people want to help, they are just hesitant to ask.
Final thought. “Following these suggestions can have positive short- and long-term results,” says McLeod Cancer Oncologist, Dr. Rajesh Bajaj. “Taking control of the process might reveal an inner strength you never realized existed. Cancer is something you can’t and shouldn’t fight alone. You may create new friendships or re-establish old ones as you build your network of help and helpers.”
Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health (National Cancer Institute), Susan G. Komen For the Cure, SheKnows.com, Cancer Facts & Figures for 2013, EverydayHealth.com