Breast cancer is often viewed through the lens of the physical challenges the disease poses . Women undergoing breast cancer treatment often confront fatigue , and many deal with physical changes to their bodies , some of which may be permanent . Though the physical challenges associated with breast cancer are significant , the disease also can take a toll on women ’ s mental health .

Each woman ’ s experience with breast cancer is unique . However , women with breast cancer may confront many of the same mental health challenges that others before them have dealt with . Recognition of the effects a breast cancer diagnosis can have on mental health is vital as women work to overcome their disease and go on

to live long , healthy lives .

Depression The American Cancer Society reports that roughly one in four people diagnosed with breast cancer experience depression . Breastcancer . org notes that symptoms of depression include feelings of intense sadness ; loss of interest in activities once enjoyed ; feelings of extreme irritability or restlessness ; isolating oneself or being unable to accept help ; and lack of motivation to perform daily activities , among others . Breastcancer . org notes that women diagnosed with metastatic or

triple-negative breast cancer might be more likely to experience depression than those informed they have other forms of the disease . Women who experience early menopause brought on by breast cancer treatments and those concerned about infertility also may be more likely to develop depression .

Anxiety

The organization Living Beyond Breast Cancer ® notes more than 40 percent of people diagnosed with breast cancer experience anxiety . Anxiety brought on by a breast cancer diagnosis can be triggered at any time , including upon learning one has the disease , during treatment and even after treatment has concluded . Anxiety levels may increase while waiting for test results ,

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Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer may experience various side effects that affect their mental health . Women are urged to speak openly with their physicians and request help combatting any mental health complications that arise before , during and after treatment .

anticipating the start of treatment and even during follow-up treatments . Feelings of being worried all the time ; worries shifting from one problem to another ; restlessness ; difficulty concentrating ; and difficulty falling or staying asleep are some common symptoms of anxiety , according to LBBC .

Memory loss Breast Cancer Now reports that women may feel more forgetful during and after breast cancer treatment , noting this is often referred to as “ chemo brain ” or “ brain fog .” Even women who are not receiving chemotherapy as part of their breast cancer treatment can experience

memory loss , the cause of which remains a mystery . The fatigue and difficulty sleeping many women experience during breast cancer treatment may contribute to memory loss . Breast Cancer Now notes keeping a diary , writing things down and planning ahead are some ways to overcome the memory loss associated with breast cancer .

Addiction

Breastcancer . org notes that some of the medicines prescribed during breast cancer treatment can be addictive . For example , opioids to treat pain and additional prescription medications to address anxiety , which can include Xanax and Valium , can be addictive . Taking only prescribed doses can reduce the likelihood of addiction .

The World Cancer Research Fund International reports that breast cancer is the second most common cancer across the globe , and the number one cancer in women . Nearly three million new cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed across the globe each year .

Breast cancer poses a notable threat to women ’ s health , but research and resulting advancements in

treatment have made the disease more treatable than ever . Women also can play a part in ensuring better outcomes in relation to breast cancer by educating themselves about the disease , including its warning signs . The MD Anderson

Cancer Center notes that most changes to the breast are a byproduct of hormonal cycles or conditions that are not as formidable as breast cancer . So women should not jump to any conclusions when spotting such changes . However , the MDACC recommends women visit their physicians if they notice any of the following signs and symptoms of breast cancer .

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Lump

The MDACC notes that a lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer . Echoing assertions made by the MDACC , the American Cancer Society notes that most breast lumps are not cancerous . The ACS indicates a lump that is a painless , hard mass with irregular edges is more likely to be cancer , though cancerous lumps also can be soft , round , tender , or even painful . The lack of uniformity regarding cancerous lumps is one reason why it pays for women to be extra cautious and immediately report any abnormalities in the shape and feel of their breasts to their physicians .

Swelling

The ACS notes that some women with breast cancer will experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they do not feel a lump .

Dimpling

The MDACC reports that women with breast cancer may notice dimpling or puckering on the breast . According to the ACS , the dimpling can sometimes make the breast look like an orange peel .

Nipple retraction

The National Cancer Institute notes that nipple retraction occurs when a nipple turns inward into the breast or lies flat against the breast . Though nipple retraction can be a sign of breast cancer , the NCI notes that ’ s not necessarily the case for all women . Some women experience nipple retraction due to aging , breastfeeding , injury , infection , surgery , or certain conditions of the breast .

Changes to skin around breast

The ACS notes some women with breast cancer experience redness on the

skin around the breast or on the nipple . Additional changes may include dry , flaking or thickened skin around the breast and nipple .

Discharge from nipple

The Mayo Clinic notes that it ’ s normal to experience discharge from the nipple while pregnant and during breastfeeding . However , fluid coming out the nipple when a woman is not pregnant or breastfeeding could be a symptom of breast cancer .

Additional symptoms

The MDACC notes scaliness on the nipple that sometimes extends to the areola is another warning sign of breast cancer . The ACS also reports that swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone can indicate that breast cancer has spread even before the original tumor in the breast has been felt .