The challenge associated with speaking with family, friends, and even colleagues cannot be understated. Receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer can lead to emotional lability-extremes of emotion ranging from optimistic to depressed.

It is critical that the patient feel empowered. When, how, and if a loved one is told about the patient’s diagnosis and/or details regarding treatment remains under the patient’s control.

Friends and loved ones often want to be a source of support. MY opinion on this includes learning to maintain strong barriers when people are coming on too strong or become controlling, but as women, we tend to take the weight of the world on our shoulders. Allow healthy support in. There WILL be times when you need support and other times when you won’t. Just be cognizant that you’re on an unknown journey and it’s not easy to go it alone.

Need more information? Please visit www.breastcancer.org