Cancer Research UK main site

Struggling with my Mental Health - was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer 18 months ago

Charmers
Offline

HI I have been diagnose with Secondary breast cancer stage 4, mets in sternum 18 months ago.  I am still working however I am finding the anxiety & depression I have is getting worse as time goes on.  I am really stressed waiting for scan results and always think the worst.  I am srtruggling to talk to my husband as he is going through this as well in a sense of not knowing and that he can't do anything about how I feel.  I find it difficult to speak to him about it because it increases how worry.  Have any of this community linked into any counselling or speaking to someone that can help with this?

Thanks in advance

  • Offline

    Hi Charmers,  I know how you feel,  I have just been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer with mets in spine and pelvis.  I am only seeing the oncologist tomorrow for the first time.  I want to start treatment as soon as possible to stop it spreading.  May I ask what treatment you are having.  I had lobular breast cancer twelve years ago with surgery, chemo and radiotherapy.  It is hard to talk to my husband as I dont want to upset him.

    Love Lee x

  • Hello, Charmers.
    I’m sorry to hear about what you’re going through.
    Anxiety and depression can be tough to manage, and it’s even harder when you feel like you can’t fully share your worries with your husband because you don’t want to add to his stress. Reaching out, like you’ve done here, is such a brave and positive step.
    It sounds like talking to someone outside of your immediate circle could help. A resource like the Counselling Directory might be worth exploring. It’s designed to help people find qualified therapists in their area, including those experienced in supporting people with cancer-related anxiety and emotional challenges. They could offer you a safe and neutral space to process everything you’re feeling.
    Another great option is Maggie’s Centres, which provide free emotional and practical support for people living with cancer, as well as their families. They have a variety of support options, including one-on-one sessions and group activities, where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
    Both of these resources can offer tools and support to help ease the weight of everything you’re carrying right now. And please know that this community is here for you, too, whenever you need to share or talk, we’re ready to listen.
    With best wishes,
    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.