What We Forget to Acknowledge During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month shines a spotlight on prevention, treatment, and survivorship, but it is equally important to acknowledge the mental health journey of patients and families. Receiving a diagnosis can bring shock, fear, sadness, or guilt. Treatment and recovery often require adapting to changes in energy levels, identity, and relationships, all of which can feel overwhelming.

Mental health care during illness is just as vital as medical treatment. Practices such as mindfulness meditation help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, while journaling provides an outlet to process emotions and track progress through difficult times. Therapy can create a safe space to talk through fears, grief, or the impact of illness on family dynamics. For many, connecting with other survivors through support groups fosters resilience by reminding them they are not alone.

Resilience doesn’t mean being strong all the time. It means being honest about your feelings, seeking support when needed, and finding meaning even in hardship. Families and caregivers also need care—burnout and stress are common, and therapy or caregiver support groups can make a huge difference.

For Parents and Families: If your child is impacted by a parent’s or loved one’s cancer diagnosis, they may need help understanding what is happening. Simple, age-appropriate explanations, paired with reassurance that their feelings are valid, can help children cope with the uncertainty and changes at home. There are many support groups that both children and adults can join to receive the necessary comfort, support, and a group of people to bond with and share their stories.  

Helpful Resources for Families:

• American Cancer Society – Support services, information, and resources for families. https://www.cancer.org/

• CancerCare – Free counseling, groups, and education for patients and caregivers. https://www.cancercare.org/

• Susan G. Komen Foundation – Advocacy, education, and emotional support for those affected by breast cancer. https://www.komen.org/ 

Healing is more than physical. Supporting the emotional well-being of patients and families throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery empowers them to find strength, hope, and connection even in the hardest times.

If you need guidance, reach out today! Call us at 347-921-0811.

Article Written by: Sabrina Kalontarov