Happy Anniversary and Navigating Relationships after Cancer Diagnosis

 Happy 7th Anniversary to me and my hubs! I can't think of a greater gift than for him to continue to be by my side as I continue this fight.

 I found this article from Outcomes4Me about Navigating Romantic Relationships straight and to the point. It is true that a cancer diagnosis can make or break some relationships. Fortunately, ours has been made stronger and stronger. I always enjoyed watching the couples come into the oncologists office together, showing support for their significant other.

"Here are four considerations to keep in mind to help you prioritize your own mental health and self-care, along with your relationship:

• Find the right time to disclose
• When you do decide you’re ready to share, it can be helpful to approach the conversation in a calm and confident manner. Allow the partner you’re in a relationship with to ask questions and provide reassurance and support as needed. It’s important to remember that not everyone may be comfortable with the realities surrounding your cancer diagnosis, and that’s okay. The right person for you will accept and support you, regardless of your cancer story.
• Communicate openly
• A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that caregivers of cancer patients are at a significantly higher risk of suffering from anxiety and depression disorders. Be honest about how you’re feeling and what you need from your partner, and also encourage them to share their own thoughts and feelings about your diagnosis with you. Open communication is hard work but it’s so worth it to learn how to best support each other during this challenging time in your relationship.
• Be patient with yourself
• Give yourself time and space to heal, and don’t push yourself too hard. Breast cancer can affect a person’s body image and self-esteem. It’s important to talk about these concerns and find way to connect that are comfortable for both of you.
• Take care of yourself
• Investing in self-care after a breast cancer diagnosis can benefit your relationships. When you prioritize your own well-being, you can develop a stronger sense of self-esteem and self-worth, which can improve your communication and connection with others. Self-care can help reduce stress and improve physical health, which can have a positive impact on mood and energy levels, leading to more positive interactions with others. Additionally, taking time for self-care can provide a sense of control and empower you to approach your relationships with confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. Self-care can look different for each person–e.g. it could mean taking a walk, watching your favorite show, doing yoga, or cooking–but the goal is to engage in activities that bring joy and a sense of balance to one’s life."