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Breast cancer and Mental health awareness

October is Breast cancer awareness month

The designation of October as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" in South Africa reflects a nationwide drive by public and private healthcare structures to raise awareness of this debilitating disease across all races and class structures.

The incidence of breast cancer among South African women is increasing and it is one of the most common cancers among women in South Africa. It is the most prevalent cancer amongst white and asian women and the second most common cancer among black and coloured women.

Facts about breast cancer:

Early detection of the condition can lead to effective treatment and a positive prognosis.
Regular self-breast examination and regular mammograms are key to early detection.
Presenting yourself early for treatment may result in more effective treatment, leading to a reduction in pain and suffering and a significant decrease in the loss of life.

The designation of October as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" in South Africa reflects a nationwide drive by public and private healthcare structures to raise awareness of this debilitating disease across all races and class structures.

What are some signs and symptoms of breast cancer?

Every woman should know how her breasts normally look and feel, so she can recognize any changes that may occur.

Signs of breast cancer may include:

Lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
Swelling or thickening of all or part of the breast.
Dimpling or skin irritation of breast skin.
Localized, persistent breast pain.
Redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin.
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk).
Any change in the size or shape of the breast.

Breast cancer screening

All women should have a risk assessment at age 30 to see if screening earlier than age 40 is needed.
Women at average breast cancer risk should begin screening at age 40.
Women previously diagnosed with breast cancer may also benefit from supplemental screening with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), especially if their cancer was diagnosed at or before the age of 50.
Breast ultrasound is often used along with mammography for high-risk women who cannot undergo MRI, and women with dense breast tissue.
A breast MRI may be used to screen high-risk women and gather more information about a suspicious area found on a mammogram or an ultrasound.

Where breast cancer begins in men

Everyone is born with a small amount of breast tissue. Breast tissue consists of milk-producing glands (lobules), ducts that carry milk to the nipples, and fat.

During puberty, women begin developing more breast tissue, and men do not. But because men are born with a small amount of breast tissue, they can also develop breast cancer.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any persistent signs or symptoms that worry you.

Breast Cancer and Mental Health

A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can bring a mixture of emotions, including anxiety and depression. Taking care of your mental health can support your treatment and help you feel better physically.

Your emotions matter

You have a right to mourn your losses, but remember, you are more than your cancer. Be gentle with yourself. Look for ways to feel good inside and out. There are many options available to help you, this includes prescription medication, counselling, massage, meditation, relaxation techniques and physical therapy, among others.

Avoid the “be positive” trap. It’s normal to have bad days. But, if you find that your anxieties, worries or fears are interfering with your day-to-day activities or sleep habits, talk to your doctor.

Treatment side effects can affect your mood

Breast cancer treatment can bring side effects such as insomnia, memory changes and mood swings. Hormone level changes can influence your emotions and weight gain can be discouraging. Some women self-blame while others feel punished.

Side effects may continue after treatment, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can trigger emotions experienced at diagnosis or during treatment. All of these feelings are normal. Don’t be afraid to ask for professional help.

Fear of recurrence

Fear of recurrence (cancer coming back) is common and expected. Every ache and pain may cause you to think, “Is my cancer back?” There are ways to ease your fears.

Accept your emotions. Talk about your fears with a healthcare provider, licensed mental health professional, trusted friend, or other survivors.
Practice mindfulness or meditation. Awareness in the moment often helps reduce anxiety, stress, and fear of recurrence.
Take control of your health. Ask your doctor for a written follow-up care plan, including what exams you need in the future and how often you should have them.
Recognize important indicators. Ask your doctor for a list of symptoms you should report to him/her in between check-ups, such as new lumps, bleeding, or pain.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Get enough exercise, sleep and follow a healthy diet.
Join a support group for breast cancer survivors. Getting to know other cancer survivors will help you feel less alone as you learn how they are coping with the same worries.

Mental health care: What are my options?

There are numerous ways to get help. Choosing what is most effective or helpful can be based on personal preference, cost, and what is available in your community.

You might find that certain practices you can do on your own, such as exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques or simply reaching out to friends and family are effective for maintaining your mental health. But for some people, seeking a qualified mental health professional or a support group may be beneficial.

Counselling

Individual counselling is typically one-on-one support that is tailored to a person’s particular emotional issues, as well as those related to relationships, parenting, work, and other concerns.

Seeing a therapist who knows breast cancer well will likely be more helpful than someone who does not, as you won’t have to waste time and energy bringing them up to speed on the basics of what you are going through.

Different kinds of mental health professionals can offer therapy. There is short-term counselling as well as ongoing psychotherapy.

You are not alone.

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Breast Cancer Awareness 2021