Mental health and new diagnosis.
Hi all, been struggling really bad finding out i have cancer in my right breast early diagnosis. I dont know what sort as i cant cope with the details of it all. I have seen the doctors and waiting MRI appointment and surgery date. I am really struggling with the anxiety and the moving forward bit. I suffer with anxiety and depression quite badly. I was given the option of just having the two lumps removed or the whole breast. I cant decide which option will help me move forward better. So firstly is there any mental health accept to this organisation? I only have my hubby to rely on who is also classed as my career. I am unsure which option to go with as my mental health plays a big part in my descion. I need to make a descion that i can be happy with and wont make my anxiety worse. Unsure of who to talk to or where to go for help.🌱Wednesday Wellness - 01July26 - Writing it out.....📝
This Wednesday, we wanted to touch on a simple, accessible, and budget friendly self-care technique that many forget is 'write' at their fingertips... literally! ✍🏻 When you are living with breast cancer, emotions can feel layered, unexpected, and at times overwhelming. There can be moments of fear, sadness, gratitude, anger, hope, and everything in between, sometimes all in the same day. Finding a safe way to process these complicated feelings is important, and one way to do this is to write it out ✨ Journaling is not about perfect words or neat sentences. It is about giving yourself space to be honest. Putting thoughts onto paper can help untangle emotions that feel too big or too confusing to hold inside. Many people find that writing helps bring a sense of clarity, calm, and even relief. Writing can also create a sense of control when so much feels uncertain. It allows you to slow down and acknowledge what is happening internally, without judgement or pressure. Over time, it can become a way to track how you are feeling, notice patterns, and recognise your own strength and resilience. 💪💞 If you would like to try writing today, here are a few gentle prompts to support you: 📝 What feelings have been sitting with me lately? 📝 What has felt heavy, and what has felt lighter? 📝 What is something I wish others understood about how I am feeling? 📝 What has helped me cope, even in a small way? 📝 If I spoke to myself with kindness, what would I say? There is no right or wrong way to do this. You might write a few words, a paragraph, or simply jot down dot points. Every bit of expression matters. If it feels right for you, you are welcome to share a reflection or even just one word below. Your voice might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today. 🌸
Partner Issues
Hi there everyone. I’m really struggling at the moment. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 IDC and had to have a unilateral mastectomy, chemo and radiation . Unfortunately my partner of 7 years was unable to cope with the physical changes and never wanted to see me naked after the operation. He wasn’t very sensitive about saying “no” to my offer either. He recently cheated and we broke up. I feel very alone but determined not to date again until I’m ready - if ever. Has anyone else experienced similar ? I think I am on grief and feeling very disillusioned.
So confused, scared and teary
Hi all, I was just diagnosed yesterday with DCIS intermediate grade 2 and told to get off my HRT patches immediately. I have 3 areas in the one breast so I think i will need a masectomy. I have been contacted by Peter Mac in Melbourne regarding my referral and just waiting on confirmation of my appointment date. My brain is saying if I had to have cancer this is the one to get but my emotions are being ridiculous, so teary inside but cool and calm on the outside trying to support everyone else. If I do need a masectomy i want to have reconstruction surgery on the same day with a small implant but Im so worried as 6 months ago I was let go at work due to business downsizing and ive really struggled to find another job, my mum has just passed away and any savings I had have helped with the funeral etc so basically I am seriously going through hardship and only just paying my rent on my job seeker payment. I am so scared that I will find out going through this process there are some unexpected charges that arent included, all the sites say peter mac is free and I am bulk billing but Im so scared that my health is going to held back due to financial stress. Has anyone had this process done at peter mac, chose the medicare bulk billing option and was their reconstruction covered? Sorry Im really rambling here but its so much easier to type this to a stranger than someone I know. xxxxx
Emotional support
I was diagnosed in April and have had a lumpectomy. Was going to be radiation next but my Ki67 levels are a bit high so having Endo predict test done. Oncologists are saying possibly chemo now. I am very anxious. Don't have much support. One daughter at home is autistic and the other has gone to uni so not home much. Partner and I separated so living separated under one roof which is so hard. Just need some support.Feeling overwhelmed
Hi thereAll I am 59, happily married, have two adult children. One grandson and baby no 2 due anyday now... Had surgery last week for lumpectomy and Sentinel node biopsy. Everything went well Saw surgeron yesterday . Lymph nodes are clear. Margins good. My issues is I am SO overwhelmed. Smiling for family. Smiling for friends. Little background. I had **bleep** cancer 10 years ago, back in 2016. Chemo and radiation. It was brutal. The burns were horrible. The exhaustion was the worst. Everyone is saying.... your so lucky you caught it early. You've done this before... you'll be right. Support is encouraging and I am lucky to be surrounded by lots of love. I am to be a grandmother again in two weeks and have a lively gorgeous 2 year old grandson. Timing suck.... I am overwhelmed with sadness I am overwhelmed With discourage, feeling of resentment. Feeling very isolated. **bleep** THIS CANCER... so sorry for language but it express how I feel. I want to shout. Cry. Hit something and hide under the covers and not deal with this. I know that I should be grateful. I am sick and exhausting from smiling on the outside, but paddling like hell of the inside. Hiding my emotions. I still work. Love the job. I work for a Toy library as assistant. Its not a stresing job. Only 3 days a week. They have been wonderful. How has everyone else cope. I know what I am going through is normal. Can anyone suggest a good cancer support group. I live in Victoria on the Mornington peninsula. Love and support to everyone going on this same journey Let's kick ass . Cancer sucks. XxxxxxHello
Hi all! It has been quite some time since I have frequented the BCNA online forum. I was an avid contributor when I was going through diagnosis and treatment. Just wanted to come on and say Hello and let others know that are starting out that as time goes on and you take on treatment a routine starts and eventually you can start to see brighter days. Me, along with others are living proof that life takes on a lighter, brighter side once the trauma of diagnosis and treatment settles and you can focus on getting through it and hopefully better for it. It is evolving! Fatigue is one to watch for and understand as it really takes it out of you but eventually a new normal evolves! The Kylie Minogue documentary that Kristen has so eloquently spoken of shows there's light at the end of it all. More Than a Documentary: Why Kylie's story means so much | BCNA Online Network Best wishes to all
🌏Take A Global Deep Breath on May 13th
On May 13th, take one big pause together In a world full of constant news, chaotic schedules, and fast-moving technology, we could all use a big, deep breath. Join Headspace for a free, live virtual event on May 13th at 12pm EDT that connects the mind, the body, and communities around the globe. Meditation teacher Dora Kamau will lead a free, guided breathing exercise. No app or login required — just bring your open mind. Please see link below. Link for additional information🎧 Have you connected with our podcast: Upfront About Breast Cancer
Within our Online Network, we know how important it is to feel informed, supported, and connected at every stage of a breast cancer experience. One of the many ways we support our community is through our Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast. This is a resource created for you, where real stories, expert insights, and practical guidance come together in a way that is easy to access whenever you need it. A much loved part of the podcast is the What You Don’t Know Until You Do series, hosted by Dr Charlotte Tottman. Dr Tottman is a psycho oncologist who has supported many people through the emotional impact of cancer and, following her own breast cancer diagnosis. Her thoughtful and compassionate approach creates a space where the emotional side of breast cancer can be explored openly, helping listeners better understand their own responses and feel less alone in what they are experiencing. 💬 Real conversations from our community Upfront About Breast Cancer brings together the voices that matter most. People with lived experience share their stories alongside healthcare professionals and experts, creating conversations that feel both genuine and reassuring. These discussions reflect the reality of breast cancer. They explore the shock of diagnosis, the emotional highs and lows, and what it can take to adjust to life during and after treatment. For many, simply hearing someone else say “me too” can make a powerful difference. 🌱 Supporting you at every stage We know that every experience is different, which is why Upfront About Breast Cancer is designed to support people across all stages. Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, supporting a loved one, or moving through life after treatment, there is something here for you. Episodes cover important topics such as what to expect after diagnosis, how to communicate with your healthcare team, managing side effects, and navigating the healthcare system. This means you can return to the information in your own time, absorb it at your own pace, and feel more prepared for the next step in your journey. 👉 Listen to Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast here. 🌸 A gentle reminder Some topics may feel emotional or challenging. Please take things at your own pace and look after yourself as you listen. Support is always available, the online community and our Helpline on the phones are here for you. Have you listened to Upfront About Breast Cancer? We'd love if you shared: an episode that stayed with you something new you learned a conversation you would like to hear in the future 💪 Your experience may help someone else going through a challenging part of their journey. We are stronger, together.
