Getting through the first weeks after a breast cancer diagnosis

f you have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s likely that this will dominate your thoughts and conversations over the next few weeks.
No matter how you’re feeling, try not to overwhelm yourself. Try to remember that most women survive breast cancer and that you are not alone.
If you are feeling like breast cancer is dominating your every thought, try some of the following strategies:

• Be kind to yourself. There can be a lot of uncertainty and anxiety, especially while you are waiting for test results to come back. 
• Talk to your doctor if your usual relaxation techniques don’t work.
• Give yourself a ‘cancer free’ weekend with a partner or friend and do something you both enjoy.
• If updating family and friends is getting you down, pop a message on your answering machine or social media account to let them know how you’re going. 
• Take advantage of the support that is offered to you. Lean on family and friends if you want to, or think about getting professional support from a qualified counsellor or psychologist. Your GP can refer you to someone appropriate.
• If you want to talk to someone who has experienced breast cancer, visit BCNA’s online network to connect with others in a similar experience.

Shared experienceFind out what other Australian women have had to say about their experiences of connecting with others and the effects that breast cancer can have on family and friends. In the videos below, women who have experienced breast cancer share their insights into what helped them feel supported.
​https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/new-diagnosis/getting-through-the-first-few-weeks/