When we talk about cancer, we often focus on the physical parts: the surgeries, treatments, scans, and side effects. But what’s often less visible are the emotional impacts that stay with women long after the diagnosis.
Battling cancer isn’t just about what happens to the body- it’s about the heart, mind, and spirit too. Today, we want to shine a light on three of the most common emotional challenges women face, and offer a few ways to find comfort and strength through them.
1. PTSD: The Trauma That Lingers
Hearing the words “you have cancer” is life-changing. Add to that the trauma of surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and the anxiety of every follow-up scan, and it’s no surprise that many women experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
It can feel like you’re constantly waiting for the next bad news, even years into survivorship.
How to Cope:
- Seek out a therapist or counselor who understands cancer-related trauma.
- Journaling can help release the thoughts that feel stuck.
- Try grounding techniques- like focusing on your breath, or naming five things you can see, hear, and feel in the present moment.
And remember: feeling this way doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re human.
2. Life-Altering Changes
Cancer doesn’t just affect your health- it changes your identity. Your body may look or feel different. Plans for the future may shift. Even your relationships and career can be altered by this diagnosis. Adjusting to the “new normal” can feel disorienting and lonely.
How to Cope:
- Give yourself permission to grieve the life you had before.
- Create new routines that honor who you are today.
- Surround yourself with people who see your beauty and strength- especially on days when you can’t see it yourself.
It takes time, but slowly, many women find their way back to joy and often in new and unexpected forms.
3. Overwhelming Stress
The mental load of cancer can feel impossible: appointments, test results, medical bills, and the fear of the unknown. Stress impacts your physical health, too.
✨ How to Cope:
- Break things into small, manageable steps.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help- from family, friends, or support groups.
- Explore stress relievers that calm your mind and body, whether it’s meditation, yoga, or simply a quiet walk.
- Connect with women who understand what you’re going through. You can join our Fighting Pretty Facebook Community for encouragement, advice, and friendship.
Even the smallest acts of self-care can be powerful tools to lighten the weight.
You Are Fighting Pretty
Here’s the truth: these emotional battles are just as real as the physical ones. And you don’t have to face them alone.
At Fighting Pretty, we are here to walk beside you through it all. Whether it’s a Pretty Package filled with love and comfort, a Strength & Beauty Kit delivered to your hospital, or the connection of our community! You are surrounded by women who understand what you’re going through!
Because no matter what cancer takes, it can never take away your strength, your beauty, or your spirit.
💗 You are strong.
You are beautiful.
And you are Fighting Pretty.
👉 Want to support a woman battling cancer or receive support yourself? Check out our Pretty Packages! We have everything you need to help you get through the battle feeling strong and beautiful!