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Health professionals do not tell women with breast cancer that they may develop long-term anxiety and depression after their diagnosis, warned leading charities.
Breast Cancer Care and Mind calls for better support in mental health after diagnosis after a survey found that eight women with breast cancer in England in England had not been informed of the disease. Impact of their diagnosis on their mental health.
Lauren Faye, 28, from Bristol, was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2016 and underwent lumpectomy and radiation therapy. She has since fought against social isolation and anxiety.
"The biggest obstacle to adapting to life after breast cancer was my anxiety. I have completely stopped trusting my body and I have lived in fear that something will not go with me, "she said. "To this day, I'm still afraid that cancer will come back."
provided Lauren Faye
Faye said her last appointment at the hospital was an anti-climax because she was so busy with the end of treatment that she did not anticipate progress.
"I felt isolated from my friends because I had no energy to go out with them, and I had to stay on the sidelines as they continued their career, their relationships and their lives," he said. she declared.
"At the end of treatment, my health care team did not even mention the impact of breast cancer on my mental health.
Only when she called Breast Cancer Care's helpline did her emotions be recognized and she realized that her feelings were normal.
The survey of nearly 3,000 breast cancer patients revealed that one-third (33%) experienced anxiety for the first time after their diagnosis and treatment, and that 8% had an panic attack. .
Interestingly, nearly half (45%) of those surveyed are continually worried that the cancer will reoccur, which can have serious repercussions on daily life.
Breast Cancer Care and Mind warned that when the routine of hospital appointments suddenly ends, women with breast cancer can often feel lonely, without adequate support and without knowing where to find help.
More than one in ten women with breast cancer leave home less after completing her treatment due to long-term emotional and physical side effects.
Samia al Qadhi, Executive Director of Breast Cancer Care, said, "These disturbing numbers shed light on the harsh reality of life after breast cancer and why we place a priority on people's mental health.
"The damaged body image, the anxieties associated with cancer return and the long-term debilitating side effects can disrupt identity and break confidence, leaving people feeling incredibly alone and at odds with their friends, their family and the outside world.
People expect to feel better when they finish their treatment and can be completely devastated and demoralized to find the most difficult part. "
Breast cancer care
"We know that people expect to feel better when they finish their treatment and can be completely devastated and demoralized to find the hardest part. And while the NHS is severely overburdened, it is crucial that people discuss their mental health at the end of treatment in order to get the support they need, at the right time.
Stephen Buckley, Head of Information in Mind, says, "Our physical and mental health is closely related, but too often, mental and physical health issues are treated separately.
"It is very important that anyone receiving treatment for a physical health problem be attentive to their mental health and general well-being."
Useful websites and help lines:
- Mind, open Monday to Friday from 9h to 18h 0300 123 3393
- Samaritans offers a listening service open 24 hours a day, on 116 123 (UK & ROI – this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill.)
- The mixture is a free assistance service for under 25s. Call 0808 808 4994 or send an e-mail to the following address: [email protected]
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