Breast cancer is often viewed through the lens of the physical challenges the disease poses. Women undergoing breast cancer treatment often confront fatigue, and many deal with physical changes to their bodies, some of which may be permanent. Though the physical challenges associated with breast cancer are significant, the disease also can take a toll on women’s mental health.
Each woman’s experience with breast cancer is unique. However, women with breast cancer may confront many of the same mental health challenges that others before them have dealt with. Recognition of the effects a breast cancer diagnosis can have on mental health is vital as women work to overcome their disease and go on to live long, healthy lives.
• Depression: The American Cancer Society reports that roughly one in four people diagnosed with breast cancer experience depression. Breastcancer.org notes that symptoms of depression include feelings of intense sadness; loss of interest in activities once enjoyed; feelings of extreme irritability or restlessness; isolating oneself or being unable to accept help; and lack of motivation to perform daily activities, among others. Breastcancer.org notes that women diagnosed with metastatic or triple-negative breast cancer might be more likely to experience depression than those informed they have other forms of the disease. Women who experience early menopause brought on by breast cancer treatments and those concerned about infertility also may be more likely to develop depression.
• Anxiety: The organization Living Beyond Breast Cancer notes more than 40 percent of people diagnosed with breast cancer experience anxiety. Anxiety brought on by a breast cancer diagnosis can be triggered at any time, including upon learning one has the disease, during treatment and even after treatment has concluded. Anxiety levels may increase while waiting for test results, anticipating the start of treatment and even during follow-up treatments. Feelings of being worried all the time; worries shifting from one problem to another; restlessness; difficulty concentrating; and difficulty falling or staying asleep are some common symptoms of anxiety, according to LBBC.
• Memory loss: Breast Cancer Now reports that women may feel more forgetful during and after breast cancer treatment, noting this is often referred to as “chemo brain” or “brain fog.” Even women who are not receiving chemotherapy as part of their breast cancer treatment can experience memory loss, the cause of which remains a mystery. The fatigue and difficulty sleeping many women experience during breast cancer treatment may contribute to memory loss. Breast Cancer Now notes keeping a diary, writing things down and planning ahead are some ways to overcome the memory loss associated with breast cancer.
• Addiction: Breastcancer.org notes that some of the medicines prescribed during breast cancer treatment can be addictive. For example, opioids to treat pain and additional prescription medications to address anxiety, which can include Xanax and Valium, can be addictive. Taking only prescribed doses can reduce the likelihood of addiction.
Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer may experience various side effects that affect their mental health. Women are urged to speak openly with their physicians and request help combatting any mental health complications that arise before, during and after treatment.
