Breast Cancer Awareness 2021

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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

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.

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.

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