This is a question I often get asked by patients. I always tell them that breast cancer treatment is like a marathon, and not a sprint to the finish line. It is quite normal to feel anxious, depressed, panicky, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, just to name a few commonly described symptoms.
A recent research article by Davis et. al. published the frequency and severity of the most common symptoms experienced by patients after breast cancer diagnosis. In their study involving 23,840 breast cancer patients, the 3 most common symptoms (reported as moderate-to-severe) were TIREDNESS (60%), IMPAIRED WELL-BEING (53%) and ANXIETY (44%). Additionally, PAIN and DEPRESSION were reported by 36% and 30% patients respectively.
Fortunately these symptoms are manageable, and most will improve with time. I tell my patients that it may take 1-2 years, sometimes longer, before they feel better or normal again.
The first step towards healing is to recognize these symptoms when they occur so that they can be addressed appropriately. Speak to your doctors about your symptoms/feelings and involve your family and friends for extra support.
For more information about COPING with breast cancer, I have found the following resources useful: