Breast Cancer Counseling & Support

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When someone hears that they have breast cancer, their whole world can feel turned upside down. A cancer diagnosis can bring up a variety of emotions for the person experiencing the condition, as well as for their loved ones. Counseling and support groups provide breast cancer patients, survivors and their families places to express and process their emotions and improve their mental health in a safe, supportive setting. 

The Importance of Counseling & Support Groups

People experiencing a cancer diagnosis, along with their loved ones, need support. Having a safe place to express their feelings and fears is crucial to help process and face a cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer patient support groups can also provide community support and practical advice from people who have lived similar experiences. This can help with feelings of isolation that can arise as life shifts to accommodate treatment. 

For Patients & Survivors

Being able to talk about your feelings and experience with someone who understands what you’re going through because they have lived similar experiences can be invaluable to those living with breast cancer. It can help foster a sense of community and support when some family or friends may not have the capacity to fully comprehend your experience.

For Family Members & Loved Ones

Cancer doesn’t just affect the person experiencing the condition. A cancer diagnosis can send shock waves through the lives of family and loved ones and can upend the routines and rhythm of family life. Counseling and support groups are paramount for family members to deal with their own individual fears and feelings that arise about their loved one’s illness. Being able to process their own fear, anxiety, anger or other feelings can make them better equipped to support their loved one and any dependents through the transitions and changes that can occur during cancer treatment. 

What Is the Goal of Counseling?

There can be emotional side effects as a person goes through breast cancer treatment. Counseling empowers people experiencing cancer to work through emotional and mental health challenges through education and practical tools. Patients can feel supported, empowered and feel less isolated through counseling and peer support groups.

Support Options Offered by Houston Methodist

No one should face breast cancer alone. Houston Methodist Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center offers breast cancer support groups focused on the emotional, spiritual and physical side effects of the condition.
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How to Seek Out Support Groups in Your Community

Houston Methodist collaborates with organizations in our greater Houston communities, as well as national ones. Our oncology patient navigators can connect you with resources and groups close to home. 

FAQs About Breast Cancer Counseling & Support

How can I support someone with breast cancer?

Be present with your loved one and let them know that you are there for them, while also being respectful of their individual needs. Everyone experiences cancer differently, so providing compassion and comfort will look different based on the individual. Your loved one may need practical support, such as help with daily activities, or may just need someone to be present and listen to them for emotional support. Additionally, if you are the support person of someone with breast cancer, taking care of yourself is key. If you find yourself struggling or neglecting your own physical or mental health, consider finding your own support group to remind yourself that, like your loved one, you are not alone and can get help from people who have had similar experiences as a caregiver or patient. 

What emotions are often linked to breast cancer?

Each person will experience a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment differently. People experiencing breast cancer may feel anxiety, anger, fear, body issues, loss of autonomy and sadness.

What are the psychological side effects of breast cancer?

As a person navigates a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, there can be psychological side effects that arise. Anxiety, depression and grief are common.

How do I know if I should seek counseling?

It’s very normal for people experiencing breast cancer to have a variety of strong emotions. You should consider counseling when you begin to have trouble maintaining your usual routine and everyday activities, and/or notice that you are experiencing uncontrollable crying, are sleeping all the time, or have lost interest in activities.

Why Choose Houston Methodist as Your Cancer Care Provider

Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center is where innovation meets personalized treatment — offering compassionate, expert breast cancer care. Our dedicated team of specialists employs some of the most advanced, cutting-edge techniques in the country.

At Houston Methodist, you're not just a patient — you're part of a family united in the fight against breast cancer. You can trust our team to provide top-tier medical care and unwavering support every step of the way.