A diagnosis of breast cancer can bring about a wide range of emotions including shock, fear, denial, sadness and anger. Although time may ease such feelings, it may not make them go away [1].
As you go through the different stages of grief and healing, a social support network can help you address the emotional impact of the diagnosis. Studies show that support from formal and informal sources can improve quality of life [2-3].
Social support can reduce [4-7]:
- Anxiety and stress
- Emotional distress and depression
- Feelings of fatigue
- The experience of pain
Other benefits include improvements in [4-7]:
- Mood
- Self-image
- Ability to cope with stress
- Sexual function and enjoyment
- Feelings of control
In addition to emotional support, social networks can provide practical help that can make life a little easier (such as giving rides to and from treatments or help with child care).
Updated 07/22/11
