A breast cancer diagnosis can affect an entire family.

When someone you love is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is natural to feel worried, frightened or unsure about what to do. You may want to make everything better, but you may not know what to say or how you can help.

While you cannot take the diagnosis away, your support can make a meaningful difference.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to remember that awareness is not only about understanding breast cancer. It is also about supporting the people and families affected by it.

Listen Without Judging

One of the most important things you can do for someone with breast cancer is listen.

They may want to talk about their diagnosis, treatment, fears or concerns about the future. At other times, they may not want to talk about cancer at all.

Try to let them decide what they are comfortable discussing.

You do not need to have all the answers. Sometimes simply saying, “I am here for you” can provide comfort.

Avoid telling someone how they should feel or suggesting that they should always remain positive.

Everyone responds to a cancer diagnosis differently.

Ask How You Can Help

It can be difficult for someone going through treatment to ask for help.

Instead of simply saying, “Let me know if you need anything,” consider offering specific assistance.

You could help with:

• Shopping
• Preparing meals
• Household responsibilities
• Transport to appointments
• Looking after children
• Collecting medication
• Running everyday errands

Practical support can remove some of the pressure from someone who may already be dealing with physical and emotional challenges.

Respect Their Choices

Breast cancer treatment can involve many important decisions.

As a friend or family member, you may have your own opinions about what the person should do.

However, treatment decisions should be made between the individual and their qualified healthcare team.

You can support them by encouraging them to ask questions, attend appointments and discuss concerns with their doctors.

Being supportive does not mean making decisions on their behalf.

Understand That Emotions Can Change

Someone living with breast cancer may experience many different emotions.

They may feel hopeful one day and frightened the next.

They may become angry, frustrated, sad or withdrawn.

These emotional changes do not necessarily mean that they are giving up.

Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and people need time to process what they are experiencing.

Patience and understanding can be incredibly important.

Be Careful With Advice

When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, people often want to share stories about other people they know who have had cancer.

Although these stories are usually shared with good intentions, they may not always be helpful.

The same applies to unsolicited advice about diets, supplements or alternative treatments.

Every person’s situation is different.

Encourage your loved one to discuss treatment options and health decisions with their medical team and to use reliable medical information.

Remember the Person, Not Just the Cancer

It is easy for cancer to become the focus of every conversation.

However, the person you love is still the same person they were before their diagnosis.

Talk about their interests, hobbies, family, work, music, movies, sport or other things they enjoy.

Sometimes a normal conversation can provide a welcome break from appointments and treatment.

Cancer is part of their current experience, but it does not define who they are.

Pay Attention to Mental Health

Breast cancer can have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing.

A person may experience anxiety, depression, stress, fear or difficulty coping with everyday life.

If you notice significant changes in their mood or behaviour, encourage them to speak to their doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.

Mental health support can provide a safe place to discuss difficult emotions and develop healthy ways of coping.

Family Members Need Support Too

It is important to remember that the diagnosis can affect the entire family.

Partners, parents, children and close friends may experience their own fears and worries.

Caregivers may also become exhausted while trying to support their loved one.

Looking after your own emotional wellbeing is not selfish.

Make time for rest, maintain healthy routines and talk to someone you trust if you are struggling.

You cannot pour from an empty cup.

How AC Wellness Can Help

At AC Wellness, we understand that serious health challenges can affect mental and emotional wellbeing.

AC Wellness provides professional support for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress and other mental health challenges.

For someone affected by breast cancer, professional emotional support can provide a safe environment to discuss fear, uncertainty and the emotional challenges that can come with a serious diagnosis.

Family members may also benefit from professional support if they are struggling with the emotional impact of their loved one’s illness.

Mental health support does not replace medical cancer treatment. Instead, it can complement appropriate medical care by helping individuals cope with the emotional side of their experience.

You Do Not Need All the Answers

Supporting someone with breast cancer does not mean knowing exactly what to say.

You do not need to make the illness disappear.

Sometimes the most valuable thing you can do is simply be present.

Listen.

Offer practical help.

Respect their decisions.

Encourage appropriate professional support.

And remind them that they do not have to face the journey alone.

Supporting Someone Beyond Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to raise awareness, but support should continue throughout the year.

The journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery can be long, and emotional challenges may continue even after treatment has finished.

A phone call, a visit, a meal or simply sitting with someone can make a difference.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us remember that supporting someone with breast cancer means supporting the whole person, through the difficult days, the uncertain moments and the hopeful ones.