Meeting Your Emotional Needs When You Have Metastatic Breast Cancer

If your breast cancer has come back, you may feel angry or frustrated and may second-guess your previous treatments. And you may lose hope. But some women live for many years, managing their cancer like a long-term health problem. The treatment decisions you and your doctor made in the past were the right ones at that time. But now, new decisions must be made and treatment objectives must be explored.

• You may be able to reduce your stress by talking about your feelings to others. Stress and tension affect our emotions. By discussing your feelings with others, you may be able to understand and cope with them. Learning relaxation techniques may also help you reduce your stress.
• Expressing yourself through writing, crafts, dance, or art is a good tension reliever. Some dance, writing, or art groups especially for individuals diagnosed with cancer may be available.
• Join a support group. Talking about a problem with your spouse, a good friend, or other people with similar problems is a valuable way to reduce tension and stress. Social support is very important both during and after treatment. Talk to your doctor or contact the American Cancer Society to find out about support groups in your area. If you have access to the Internet, you may also find an online support group.
• Your feelings about your body may change after a diagnosis of breast cancer and the need for treatment. Adapting to your body image changes may involve talking openly about your concerns with your partner and discussing your feelings with your doctor. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to organizations that can offer additional support and information.

If your reaction is interfering with your ability to make decisions about your health, it is important to talk with your doctor. Your cancer treatment center may offer psychological or financial services.