Mental well-being tips for people living with breast cancer

World Cancer Day is a reminder that cancer care goes beyond treating the body — it also means nurtur ing the mind. For women di agnosed with early breast can cer, one of the most common cancers in India, the journey often brings emotional un certainty alongside medical decisions, including fears about recurrence and qual ity of life.

While advances in early detection and treat ment have significantly im proved survival rates, many patients continue to face anxiety, stress, and emotional vulnerability throughout treatment and recovery. Sup porting mental well-being is therefore essential to helping women regain confidence, control, and resilience. Meera, a 47-year-old homemaker, remembers feel ing overwhelmed after her diagnosis.

Balancing family responsibilities with frequent hospital visits left her exhaust ed and anxious about the future. Gradually, she began prioritising her mental health along with medical care. She joined a patient sup port group, practiced simple mindfulness exercises daily, and spoke openly with her doctors about her concerns and treatment choices. These steps helped her feel more grounded and better equipped to cope with un certainty, restoring a sense of calm during a difficult phase of life.Studies show that near ly four in ten people living with breast cancer experience significant anxiety or depres sive symptoms at some point.

Emotional strain is often compounded by treatment side effects, lifestyle disrup tions, and fear of recurrence. More than half of patients report some level of anxiety by the end of chemotherapy, highlighting the need for holistic care that addresses both physical and emotional health. Dr. M Vamshi Krishna, Director and Head of Depart ment, Medical Oncology and Hematology at AIG Hospi tals, Hyderabad, says, “Breast cancer treatments can take a heavy physical and emotional toll.

Visible changes, frequent hospital visits, and uncertain ty often intensify anxiety. Ad vanced therapies, along with counseling, support groups, and mindfulness practices, can ease these burdens and help patients focus on their overall well-being.”

Five ways to support mental well-being during early breast cancer:

• Choose the right treatment: Discuss options and side ef fects with your doctor to reduce emotional stress and improve quality of life.
• Address fear of recurrence: Stay informed and proac tive about therapies that may lower risk.
• Seek professional help: Therapists can provide cop ing tools and emotional guidance.
• Join support groups: Shar ing experiences reduces iso lation and builds strength.
• Practice mindfulness: Med itation, yoga, or breathing exercises can calm anxiety and restore focus.

Living with early breast cancer is challenging, but caring for your mental health can make the journey more manageable and em power you to move forward with hope