A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis can cause feelings of anxiety or depression.
NoSystem images / Getty Images
1.
Join a Support Group
Support groupscan be helpful to people living with metastatic breast cancer.
NoSystem images / Getty Images
Additionally, helping others in your support group can feel empowering.
you might give and receive encouragement, support, and information through a support web connection.
When you first join, you might need time to adjust and feel safe in that community and environment.
Even if you usually exercise, you may need to make some adjustments if recovering from surgery.
Over time, you should be able to find a balance between enjoyable activities and getting enough rest.
Communicate Your Feelings With Loved Ones
Living with breast cancer is stressful.
Try Journaling
For many people, writing is therapeutic.
Putting your thoughts into words can feel empowering, and reading what youve written down can help as well.
Journaling can be an effective way to express your private thoughts without judgment.
Seeing how your thoughts and anxieties change over time can also help.
Looking back at positive thoughts and feelings can be empowering.
Focus on Creative Outlets
Creative outlets can provide comfort, peace, and excitement.
Consider whether you have creative hobbies that make you happy and provide a sense of calm.
Think about carving out some time to do these things aloneor with others.
you’ve got the option to even improve your skills by taking a class.
Explore Complementary Therapies
Complementary therapies are used in addition to medical treatment.
For example, some herbal remedies may interact with other medications you are taking.
Discussing medications with your doctor can be helpful as you consider whether treatment is right for you.
Starting medication does not have to mean a permanent commitment to taking medication.
Some helpful resources include:
Summary
Metastatic breast cancer can cause or contribute to anxiety or depression.
you’re able to consider many different therapies and approaches to manage your symptoms.
2025;45(1):49-60. doi:10.1097/PSN.0000000000000556
National Institute on Aging.Mental health benefits of exercise and physical activity.
