Newly Diagnosed?
Facing a breast cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. When those words, ‘You have breast cancer,’ reach your ears, it’s natural to feel flooded with questions, concerns, and a whirlwind of emotions.
In this blog post, we’ll address some of the most common questions and provide guidance on how to deal with the initial shock and what happens next.
As a fellow young breast cancer survivor, I’ve been in your shoes. My journey led me to create Cancer-Free Haven, a supportive space for survivors, previvors, caregivers, and those seeking inspiration and insights. You can read more about my story on the About Me page.
I've been diagnosed with breast cancer – now what?
The moment you receive a breast cancer diagnosis is undoubtedly one of the most challenging in your life. It’s perfectly normal to be flooded with emotions – fear, confusion, and anxiety. But you’re not alone in this journey.
Here’s what you can do:
Seek Support: Reach out to your healthcare team and loved ones. You don’t have to face this alone. Your medical team will discuss treatment options and next steps. It’s entirely okay to keep the news of your new diagnosis within a small circle of well-trusted friends and family. I did this until I had my treatment plan laid out and was ready to share with my wider circle.
Educate Yourself: Empowerment begins with understanding. Instead of turning to “Dr. Google,” ask your healthcare provider for reliable information, or research from trusted sources like Breastcancer.org, Cancer Research UK, and of course Cancer-Free Haven. Knowledge is a vital part of regaining control, and staying informed through credible sources can make all the difference.
Consider a Second Opinion: In many cases, seeking a second opinion can provide clarity and confidence in your chosen treatment path. Trusted institutions such as MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and Johns Hopkins are excellent options. A competent medical professional will not be offended if you seek a second opinion. In fact, they should be willing to refer you to a colleague or assist you in transferring your medical records seamlessly.
How do you deal with being told you have breast cancer?
Coping with a breast cancer diagnosis is a highly individual journey, especially in the early stages right after diagnosis. Start by doing yourself a favor: remove the word ‘should’ from your vocabulary. You have every right to feel what you feel and to make treatment decisions based on what’s right for you, not what others outside of your care team think you “should” do.
Here are some strategies to help you navigate the emotional impact:
Embrace Your Emotions: It’s entirely normal to experience a range of emotions. Please don’t bottle them up. If it helps, consider talking to a therapist or counselor specializing in cancer care. You can easily find a therapist in your area on Psychology Today, where you can search by insurance carrier and schedule virtual sessions from the comfort of your home. I found my therapist to be a life-saver during my own cancer journey. She was a great sounding board, and our biweekly meetings helped me feel constantly supported, no matter what kind of decision-making or treatment I was facing.
Lean on Support: Connect with support groups, friends, and family. Sharing your feelings and fears can provide immense relief. Look to make connections with young women like you. Early on after my diagnosis, I found a few of my breasties (breast cancer best friends) via Facebook groups like “Breast Cancer Under 40“. In our upcoming e-course “Thrive from the Start!“, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide for your breast cancer journey and help you connect with other young breast cancer survivors. We also offer personalized guidance via 1:1 coaching, for more information see our Guidance page.
Self-Care: It’s easy for your mind to be consumed by doctors’ appointments, scans, and pending treatments, but don’t forget about your mental health. Remember, it’s okay to say no! One significant step that helped me make space for self-care was dedicating one day a week to avoid scheduling any appointments related to cancer. Instead, I used this day to relax, visit a sauna, and practice yoga. The afternoon was dedicated to work and normal life.
What happens when you are first diagnosed with breast cancer?
Initially, the critical step is to identify the type and receptor status of the cancer. This crucial information helps your healthcare team determine the most suitable treatment plan for you. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, or a combination, depending on the specifics of your diagnosis.
Your care team may delay the official staging of the cancer until after surgery. This practice is entirely normal, so there’s no need to worry if they choose not to disclose the stage upfront.
It’s vital to remember that every breast cancer journey is unique. What matters most is your close collaboration with your healthcare team. Gather as much information as you can and make decisions based on what’s right for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek a second opinion if you feel it’s necessary.
Where do I go from here?
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is a life-altering moment, but with the right support and information, you can navigate this journey. Remember, you’re not alone, and there is a wealth of resources and people ready to help you through this challenging time.
If you found this blog post helpful and are looking for more guidance to start your breast cancer journey on the right foot, I have a special free resource for you. It’s called “Circles of Control: Refocusing after a new cancer diagnosis.” This guide will help you transform your breast cancer journey by focusing on what you can change, empowering your decisions, and finding serenity in uncertainty.
Sign up today and you’ll not only receive this valuable freebie but also be added to our email list. This means you’ll stay updated on our latest blog posts, guest podcast episodes, and our upcoming e-course, “Thrive from the Start.” We commit to providing you with the information and support you need as you navigate your breast cancer journey.
Thank you for being a part of Cancer-Free Haven. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
