The holidays can be a time of joy and connection, but after a breast cancer diagnosis, they might also bring challenges. Balancing festivities with physical and emotional recovery is no small feat, yet with some preparation and a focus on self-care, you can make the holidays meaningful and manageable.
Before you read into this guide, please remember that these are all suggestions and the way you interact with family will greatly depend on various factors such as relationships and circumstances. Ultimately, you do what you need to do that is best for you in your journey of healing.
1. Set Realistic Expectations
After a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s essential to recognize your current energy levels and set boundaries. You might not be able to host or participate in every event as you once did, and that’s okay. Communicate openly with your family about what you feel up for and ask for their understanding. Declining an invitation to prioritize your health is completely okay and you should never feel guilty for doing so.
Scaling back plans or delegating responsibilities can ease pressure and help you focus on what truly matters—quality time with loved ones.
2. Prioritize Your Mental Health
Coping with the emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is vital, especially during the holiday season. If you’re struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress, consider carving out time for mindfulness or journaling to reflect on your journey.
Do not feel the need to bottle up your feelings because of a holiday. Your mental health is not secondary to a need to put up a positive image during the holidays. If you need to take a step back from any festivities, it’s okay.
For those of you who have already gone through a mastectomy, our article Post-Mastectomy Mental Health: Reclaiming Yourself After Breast Cancer Treatment offers helpful strategies to support your mental well-being and rediscover your sense of self.
3. Embrace the Support of Loved Ones
Your family likely wants to be there for you but may not know how. Don’t hesitate to express your needs or ask for help with tasks such as cooking, decorating, or shopping. This collaboration not only lightens your load but also strengthens bonds and creates meaningful shared experiences.
Dealing with a difficult time in life is much more manageable when you are not alone in the journey. Not only will it help you, it will also help your family understand you more and what you’re going through.
4. Manage Physical Changes with Confidence
If you do choose to attend events, going through the holidays with physical changes from treatment, such as hair loss, can be emotionally taxing. Consider embracing stylish scarves, hats, or wigs to feel your best while staying comfortable. The guide How to Cope with Hair Loss from Chemotherapy provides tips for managing this aspect of recovery with confidence.
Having a choice on how you want to look is powerful and can give a sense of control.
5. Choose Comfort Over Perfection
The holiday season often comes with societal pressures to look and act a certain way. However, this is the perfect time to prioritize your comfort and well-being. Opt for cozy outfits and meaningful traditions over elaborate celebrations, focusing on what truly brings you joy and peace.
6. Create New Traditions
Your journey through breast cancer might bring a shift in perspective, making this a great opportunity to introduce new, meaningful traditions. Whether it’s a family gratitude journal, a quiet evening decorating cookies, or hosting a virtual holiday call with loved ones far away, these fresh activities can honor where you are in life now.
7. Give Yourself Grace
The holidays can be overwhelming, even in the best of times. Remember to give yourself grace as you navigate this season. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions and to step back if needed. Rest, recharge, and lean into moments of joy wherever you find them.
8. Connect with Support Communities
If you’re feeling isolated, reaching out to others who’ve been through similar experiences can be invaluable. Many breast cancer support groups host holiday events or offer online forums for connection and encouragement.
The holiday season after a breast cancer diagnosis can look different, but it doesn’t have to lose its magic. You can build meaning in your journey. Embrace your family’s love and support and build a holiday that gives you joy!
Happy holidays!