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Breast cancer and self-esteem: Advice and support
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Topic of the discussion
Posted on 03/08/2017 12:31
New to this forum, I've been having a very difficult time lately, emotionally, after the surgery...I can't help being disgusted at my own body and it makes me depressed and angry. I live alone, don't have a partner, and don't know how I'll ever get one now. am I the only one who is so depressed because of that??
Beginning of the discussion - 04/08/2017
Breast cancer and self-esteem: Advice and support https://www.carenity.co.uk/forum/breast-cancer/living-with-breast-cancer/my-body-makes-me-depressed-1915Posted on 04/08/2017 20:39
I can really relate to what you say. I'm single too (happy to be!) but the thought of dating again in the future seems impossible. I'm ok with my body (fortunately I only needed a lumpectomy) but losing my hair, eyebrows and eyelashes have left me feeling very unfeminine and has knocked my confidence.
Some days I'm ok with it, then other days I catch sight of myself in the mirror and think "oh Sh*t!"
For the time being I'm just focussing on finishing my treatment and then I'll worry about getting out and about again.
Posted on 07/08/2017 16:13
I am single and had a lumpectomy , chemo and radiotherapy. Despite a cold cap I lost most of my hair, eyebrows, appetite, etc. I looked pasty faced and when faced with the glamour models who tragically had breast cancer while young, walk out with incredible bone structure, make up etc- very brave and they look fantastic- but I looked nothing like that. I got a wig and wore it everywhere and most people had no idea. It Did wonders for my self confidence and I did not take it off for a year - because I looked so good in it. It was a big thing to take it off but by then my hair had one back pretty much like it was before. So ladies- go forward - it will come right- it is only time!
Posted on 07/08/2017 17:25
Hi,
i do understand how you feel. I had a mastectomy recently and opted for recon from my tummy. The Breast is too big and is heavy and droopy, no nipple, I cant wear fitted tops. I need more adjustments. Have a scar from hip to hip..But when I feel sorry for myself I just think about the fact I am alive. Hair grows back my lovely. Stay positive x
Posted on 25/08/2017 23:07
We all need to stay strong - as we need to keep going for ourselves and loved ones. As for the models - I had my make-up done at a look good feel good afternoon and I looked fab - even had eyebrows. It will take each and everyone of use time to get use to the new us.
Stay strong and positive ladies xx
Posted on 01/10/2018 15:20
@Fighting @Angel2123 @Margaret1 @Cartwheels @brunette007
Hello ladies,
I hope you're feeling well lately and I wish you all a great Breast Cancer Awareness month!
Posted on 15/11/2019 16:29
Hi I'm just coming back to say I was bad off when I made this thread and now things are so much better. Don't lose hope, ladies. How are is everyone else out there? Survivors? Newly diagnosed?
Posted on 01/09/2020 12:44
Hello everyone,
How are you today? Have you seen this older discussion?
Has breast cancer had an impact on your self-esteem? How have you managed to reconnect to your "new" body?
@Lulu61 @Saalex @Karen77 @Joanne52 @Mariep @Willowfluffbud @Hakamathma74 @Junie1 @Anniejac @Dempca @wolfchick1983 @Mel1960 @AudreyFarmer @Janemary @FaithHope77 @DramaProducer
Feel free to share and exchange in the comments below!
Take care,
Courtney
Posted on 28/09/2020 14:34
@Courtney_J I completely understand what everyone has described and I'm a bit in that place myself. I finished this round of chemo not long ago and I've lost all my hair and it's just so hard some days. I try to remember that I'm strong and that hair doesn't define me and that I won't let this cancer defeat me. Talking to friends or others who have been through cancer helps too. Stay strong ladies! xx