People with breast cancer who adopt positive coping mechanisms have less depression and anxiety, fewer cancer symptoms, and fewer side effects from their treatment. There are many ways to cope with stress. Studies find the following stress-reduction strategies to be popular among people with breast cancer:
Mindfulness-based approaches: Meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness-based strategies help cope with the stress and uncertainty a breast cancer diagnosis can bring.
Acupuncture: Placing very thin needles at various pressure points around the body may ease symptoms like pain, nausea, and vomiting caused by breast cancer and its treatments.
Spirituality: Some people find comfort in the feeling that there is something greater than themselves. Prayer is a common coping strategy among people with breast cancer.
Support groups and counseling: Being surrounded by people who understand what you’re going through or having the helpful ear of a trained therapist can positively affect mood and self-esteem.
Exercise: Walking and other forms of physical activity help you manage the fatigue that breast cancer and its treatments can cause.
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM): Herbal supplements, vitamins, special diets, and mind-body healing practices are popular with breast cancer patients. Before you try any natural remedy, check with the doctor who treats your cancer to ensure it’s safe and won’t interfere with your treatment.