Breast cancer: the impact even before diagnosis – this is why psycho-oncology is helpful
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also an opportunity to reflect on a less visible aspect of the disease: the impact of the words used to describe it and the quality of the relationships that support those going through it
The psychological impact of breast cancer can begin well before a diagnosis is made. It can be felt as early as when a woman receives an invitation for a screening mammogram, when fear of the result leads her to put off the examination, and it can accompany a woman throughout her entire treatment journey, even influencing the way she views her own body and recognises herself in the mirror once again. Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which every October draws attention to breast cancer prevention, is also an opportunity to reflect on a less visible aspect of the disease: the weight of the words used to describe it and the quality of the relationships that support those going through it.
The metaphor of battle often crops up in discussions about cancer. We talk about people who struggle, fight, win or lose. For some women, this language can convey energy and determination; for others, it can become an additional burden. If recovery means ‘winning’, in fact, a negative outcome risks being implicitly associated with the idea of not having fought hard enough. The illness, however, is not a test of strength, and its course does not depend on one’s ability to be strong or positive.
Even words of reassurance require care. Phrases such as ‘you’ll see, it’s nothing’ or ‘everything will be fine’ stem from a desire to protect, but no one can guarantee the outcome. Reassuring someone does not mean promising that everything will be fine, but rather providing clear information and making them feel that they will not have to face what lies ahead alone.
A particularly difficult time is the period of waiting between a test and the results. Anxiety stems from the fear of a possible diagnosis, and the uncertainty temporarily reduces one’s sense of control, leaving many possible scenarios open – scenarios which the mind tends to run through, sometimes repeatedly. This is why communicating the results is part of the care process. Reading a report on your own – perhaps written in technical language – is not the same as receiving and understanding that information within the context of a consultation with a healthcare professional.
It is understandable to feel some concern at times like these, and this should not automatically be seen as a clinical problem. It may be helpful to stick to your usual routines as far as possible, limit the amount of information you seek online, and talk to people who are able to listen without downplaying your concerns. Knowing when the results will be available, how they will be communicated and who to contact for clarification also helps to reduce uncertainty.
