Hearing a breast cancer diagnosis is like throwing a rock into a pond, sending ripples through every part of your life. Amidst doctor consultations and treatment appointments, it can be hard to focus on other life commitments such as work.
Some choose to continue working during treatment, while others take a break to focus on recovery before returning to work. [1].
Work can provide a sense of purpose and control, especially when a cancer journey can leave one feeling lost and uncertain. For some, work can be fulfilling and tied to self-worth [2]. Continuing to work during treatment can offer a sense of normalcy and financial stability [1]. Returning to work after treatment can help restore quality of life [3].
Whether you continue to work or take a break, self-compassion is crucial as you navigate the challenges ahead.
Embracing Your Emotions Without Judgement
A cancer diagnosis can change how you view yourself and your work, bringing up emotions like stress, anger or frustration. Simple tasks may become harder due to treatment-related fatigue, and the way people at work treat you might also change [1] [4].
Bottling up these negative emotions may be tempting, but they are a normal response to your challenges. Acknowledge, accept and allow yourself to feel these emotions fully without judgement [5]. This can create space for healing and help you move forward.
Communicating with Colleagues
“Should I tell my co-workers about my cancer?” How open you are with your co-workers is up to you, as it may depend on your comfort levels and relationship with them.
Telling people at work [6]:
- Gives them a chance to support you
- Makes it easier to let them know if you need help
- Provides opportunities for them to suggest ways to help you cope at work
- Can strengthen your connection with them
- Connects you with others who may have similar experiences
Ultimately, your well-being is what matters most. It’s okay to take things at your own pace and share only what feels right.
Consider speaking with co-workers in smaller groups to make conversations more manageable [7]. Identify your triggers and topics that make you uncomfortable [8]. For example, if your treatments have changed what your body looks like. This can help you set healthy boundaries.
You may be worried about people’s reactions. Some may be supportive and others may be unsure of how to navigate conversations with you. If a co-worker makes an awkward or insensitive comment, feeling upset and taking it personally is understandable. Acknowledge the comment and try diverting the topic away from your condition [8].
Adapting and Being Kind to Yourself
There are practical steps you can take at work and beyond to make the process more manageable and ensure you treat yourself with kindness.
Firstly, speak with your employer about the possibility of reasonable accommodations, such as flexible hours to work around medical appointments or even workload adjustments [1]. Communicating your needs can help you manage and set realistic expectations at work.
Acknowledge your current limitations—whether it’s physically, mentally, or emotionally. You may need to take more frequent breaks and pace yourself if your energy levels and concentration are affected by treatment [1]. Listen to your body instead of pushing through exhaustion and pain.
Don’t hesitate to ask co-workers for help when needed [9]. Asking for help and being open about your struggles does not mean you are weak. It can be a sign of your inner strength and self-awareness.
Some days will be easier than others. There will be moments when you feel like you’re handling things well and others when the stress and weight of everything feels overwhelming. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and take pride in your progress each day.
Seeking Strength in Connection
Even with support from family, friends and co-workers, fighting breast cancer can feel lonely. Loved ones may have good intentions but might not fully understand what you’re going through.
Connecting with fellow patients and survivors through in-person or online support groups can help you feel less isolated and provide a much-needed sense of community. Studies show that online cancer communities can help meet information needs, provide emotional support and help boost self-esteem [10].
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to navigate work during your breast cancer journey. Whatever you decide to do, take it one step at a time and practise self-compassion. You are stronger than you realise, and you don’t have to walk the path alone.
Support from others who understand can make all the difference. Club Solis is a support network for Solis patients to share experiences and form meaningful connections.
References
[1] Breast Cancer Now, Work and Breast Cancer.
[2] Recovering or working: women’s experiences of working while coping with cancer: a qualitative study
[3] Supporting Return to Work after Breast Cancer: A Mixed Method Study
[4] Macmillan Cancer Support, Work and Cancer
[5] National Cancer Institute, Emotions and Cancer
[6] Macmillan Cancer Support, Talking about cancer at work
[7] Breastcancer.org, Workplace and Job Issues
[8] American Cancer Society, Telling Others About Your Cancer
[10] Navigating cancer using online communities: a grounded theory of survivor and family experiences
