Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women. Emotional turmoil in response to the diagnosis of breast cancer can affect a person’s physical health as well as psychological well-being. There’s no right or wrong way to feel after a diagnosis of breast cancer.

 

You’ll probably go through many emotions, from fear, shock, and anger to disbelief, sadness, and numbness. Your emotions may change day to day or even hour to hour. It’s usual to have times when you feel very low followed by times when things seem more positive.

The days and weeks immediately after a diagnosis can be particularly emotional and feel overwhelming. .  You may question yourself or Allah, “Why me? What was my fault? Why did it happen to me?” but remember it’s not your fault and all your emotions are valid.

 

IF YOU’RE FEELING OVERWHELMED

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when you’ve been diagnosed with cancer.

It can be hard to think straight or carry out normal everyday activities. Some people have physical symptoms such as loss of appetite, diarrhea or difficulty sleeping. Sadness on diagnosis is usual, so are grief, fear, and uncertainty. While thinking happy thoughts is the goal, that doesn’t mean you should ignore your less positive thoughts. All of these feelings are natural. Allow yourself to acknowledge the bad feelings-just not dwell on them for too long as it can worsen your breast cancer.

 

DON’T LET YOUR DIAGNOSIS CHANGE YOU

Just because you have cancer doesn’t mean you’re a different person. Stay true to yourself and don’t let this disease cause you to lose yourself. Hold on to your goofiness, sense of humor, and all of the other beautiful personality traits that make you… You!

 

FOCUS ON A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Cancer can make it hard to sleep well at night, so focus on making sure you get as much good rest as you can. Fight fatigue with exercise. It may seem odd, but exercise can give you more energy even when cancer or your treatment wipes you out. Things like walking or yoga can make you feel good and keep you strong. It can ease side effects and boost your mood. Light exercise is usually safe during all breast cancer treatments, but ask your doctor if you’re unsure whether to start an activity.

 

MAKE YOUR CONNECTION STRONG WITH ALLAH

 

 

“Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.” [Qur’an 2:156]

 

As Muslims, it’s our belief that every ordeal, hardship, and illness comes from Allah Almighty and He is the only one who can ease our pain. Don’t forget to make your connection strong with Allah.

 

 

GIVE SADAQAH MORE OFTEN

 

Sadaqah works as a shield against unseen calamities. It protects the giver from hardships and secures his wealth.

 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said;

 

“Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.”

 

– Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 589

 

 

You may feel lonely even when you’re surrounded by family and friends. If they haven’t experienced cancer themselves, you might feel like they don’t understand what you’re going through. You may feel giving advice and suggestions is easier said than done and it actually is but a little help can give you hope and courage to fight this disease. Breast cancer is tough but so are you.

 

If you would like to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through, pick up the phone and speak to Pink Ribbon. We’re here for you!