“One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime,” says Carl Gilford of Susan G. Komen for The Cure. Fortunately, women around the country are paying attention to breast health, shares Judy Hatch, breast cancer nurse navigator of Central Baptist Hospital. “If found in early stages, which is before or at stage one, you have a 98 percent survival rate,” tells Gilford. Always make self-care a priority. “Restful sleep and healthy eating habits can help improve strength and emotional reserve,” says Dr. Amanda Merchant, clinical and health psychologist of Bluegrass Health Psychology.
If you have been diagnosed, do not be afraid to lean on others. “It is important to strike a balance between having time to yourself to digest and work through your emotions as well as talking through your feelings with others. Social support is one of the most healing and constructive resources for coping,” emphasizes Dr. Janelle McNeal, psychologist of McNeal Psychological Services. It is not an easy time and it is normal to feel stress, denial, anger and sadness. “Do not hesitate to reach out for help if you feel overwhelmed with depression or anxiety and seek out psychological treatment to help you through the challenge,” encourages Merchant. Nobody is meant to travel alone.
