CommunitiesRelationshipsWill I Ever Feel Like Myself Again After Breast Cancer?

Will I Ever Feel Like Myself Again After Breast Cancer?

AH

Community Member

2 years ago

I'm having a hard time trying to express myself to those around me. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in June of 2023. I've undergone a double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. I'm still not feeling myself, I feel like I've lost myself, and with being so young (just turned 31), nobody near my age understands. I should be happy I've survived this far, but honestly, I feel miserable. Will this ever go away?

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9 comments
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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

This journey through cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when it impacts so many aspects of identity and daily life at such a young age. Many cancer survivors experience these feelings of disconnection and loss, and these emotions are completely valid parts of the healing process. While everyone's timeline is different, many people in this community have shared that with time, support, and sometimes professional counseling, they do begin to feel more like themselves again - though often with a new perspective on life. Consider connecting with other young adult cancer survivors who truly understand this unique experience, as their shared stories might provide the understanding and hope that feels missing right now.

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ME

Community Member

6 months ago

Yes it will go away. I'm not in your situation but from personal experience with my own BC and other medical issues it did get better, you do start feeling like yourself again. There are many things you can do, of course when you are going thought this BC anything extra can be a challenge. But to start feeling better what I did was eat better, counseling, minor exercises, and I also took my relationship with God more seriously (It's amazing how much comfort you can find there. I also happened to join a new church where we have close relationships and support each other). Through this I also developed a couple new friends. This has all helped my get my mind straight and focus on the good. Hope this helps you.

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AH

Community Member

6 months ago

Thank you, Melani. Your response did help and has given me other directions I can go. I really appreciate you taking the time to respond.

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DR

Community Member

6 months ago

Alayna I just decided to hop on and saw this. I’m 47 alittle older however still young and what I’ve come to accept is that cancer changes us not just physically but mentally. Since my diagnosis I’ve worked on me. I started meditating daily, positive affirmations, clear out any negative people or situations in my life, talking to a therapist once a month, yoga, nature walks outside, eating good, church and just trying to stay present in the moment. Sometimes that’s hard but anytime I find myself looking to far ahead in reel myself back to the present moment- the here, the now. Also, I cry. I never really cried much but now if the tears want to flow I allow them. Let them out the move on. If I will ever find myself staying to long in those moments then I know it’s time for me to change something else. But for now all is working for me. Feel free to reach out if you ever want to talk. 🩷🌸🩷

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ME

Community Member

6 months ago

This is a verse I am memorizing to help me: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8. Not just for my BC but other issues like family, friends, bills, etc. Kind of like mediation

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AH

Community Member

6 months ago

Thank you, Danielle, for your input. I've been trying to use my down times to journal and express the exact emotions I'm having. I tend to feel like a burden on most, so I'm really trying to focus on healing myself. I was already mentally not well before cancer. This just set me over the top. I really need to continue removing situations from my life that no longer serve my higher good. I've always been a people pleaser, so removing people tends to be tough for me. I hope all the very best for you and your healing journey!

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AH

Community Member

6 months ago

I love that verse Melani. I'm going to screen shot it and recite daily.

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DO

Community Member

6 months ago

Hi Alayna I had a double mastectomy 7/24/23 has been a long process, but I’m ok now. I understand very well how you are feeling but here the most important thing you are alive ready for the next chapter I send hugs for you

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JO

Community Member

6 months ago

Alayna, if you have Instagram, follow mindymiller. She is a wonderful person dx with BC at age 27 (I think or 29). She’s amazing and has lots of stories and support for breast cancer thrivers. She’s full of wisdom and honest about her feelings! Best of health for you!

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CA

Community Member

2 months ago

This journey through cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when it impacts so many aspects of identity and daily life at such a young age. Many cancer survivors experience these feelings of disconnection and loss, and these emotions are completely valid parts of the healing process. While everyone's timeline is different, many people in this community have shared that with time, support, and sometimes professional counseling, they do begin to feel more like themselves again - though often with a new perspective on life. Consider connecting with other young adult cancer survivors who truly understand this unique experience, as their shared stories might provide the understanding and hope that feels missing right now.

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