{"id":212,"date":"2024-10-17T17:47:39","date_gmt":"2024-10-17T17:47:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.embracepwc.com\/blog\/?p=212"},"modified":"2025-03-20T19:00:45","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T19:00:45","slug":"the-connection-between-breast-cancer-and-mental-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.embracepwc.com\/blog\/the-connection-between-breast-cancer-and-mental-health\/","title":{"rendered":"The Connection Between Breast Cancer and Mental Health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, or learning that you are at an increased risk for developing the disease, can be one of the most distressing events a person will ever experience, according to the American Psychological Association<\/a>. Suffering from the disease \u2013 and undergoing necessary treatment \u2013 can have a negative impact on a person\u2019s physical and mental well-being. But having an increased awareness of how, why, and when breast cancer can pose challenges to a person\u2019s mental well-being, may lead to better overall health and outcomes for survivors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Does Breast Cancer Effect Mental Health<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While experiencing feelings of stress, sadness, fear, and uncertainty are normal emotional reactions to being diagnosed with breast cancer, addressing mental health concerns when they arise, can help to reduce the negative impact on a person\u2019s quality of day-to-day life and even reduce the risk of disruptions to cancer treatment. Understanding the importance of the mind body connection while fighting breast cancer, and seeking help and support early, are important tools to help a person successfully navigate the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the National Cancer Institute:<\/a> \u201cAn estimated 310,270 women and 2,790 men in the United States will learn that they have breast cancer in 2024. Because many of them have no family history of breast cancer or other known risk factors, the diagnosis often comes as a devastating surprise. The emotional turmoil that follows can affect a patient\u2019s physical health and psychological well-being.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of those diagnosed with breast cancer, nearly one in every four will experience depression, according to the American Cancer Society.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seeking the support of loved ones, practicing self-care, and maintaining healthy habits can help to mitigate the initial shock and emotional upheaval brought on by a diagnosis. There are a variety of well-being resources available for those living with \u2013 and impacted by \u2013 breast cancer, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n