Next Steps After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Where to Start

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and terrifying. If you’ve just received the news, take a deep breath. There are steps you can take to navigate this journey.

1. Take a Moment
   It’s okay to pause, breathe, and share your feelings with someone you trust. You are not alone, and having someone to support you in this moment can be incredibly grounding. Processing the diagnosis emotionally is just as important as understanding it medically.
2. Learn About Breast Cancer
   Knowledge can be empowering. Understanding your diagnosis can help you feel more in control of your situation. Learn about your specific type of breast cancer, available treatments, and the outlook for your prognosis. Explore resources like the Beyond the Shock Video Series or download the Just Diagnosed with Breast Cancer eBook to gain more insight.  It’s encouraging to know that survival rates for breast cancer have significantly improved in recent decades.
3. Build Your Support Network                                                                                                                                                                         Your support system is a vital part of your care—both medically and emotionally. Surround yourself with your medical team, including oncologists, surgeons, and nurses who will help guide your treatment plan. In addition, reach out to support groups where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Whether it’s online forums, in-person groups, or therapy, sharing your experience with others who have walked this path can be deeply comforting. Consider exploring national breast cancer organizations, such as Living Beyond Breast Cancer or Breastcancer.org, which offer various types of support, including peer mentoring programs, community forums, and emotional wellness resources.By taking these steps—pausing to process your emotions, educating yourself about your diagnosis, and surrounding yourself with a strong support network—you can begin to feel more in control of your journey ahead. Though this path may be difficult, remember that you’re not alone, and there are many resources and people ready to support you every step of the way. If you would like to speak to one of our therapists at LifeCatalyst, please reach out today.