--- title: Self Care during Breast Cancer Treatment date: 2023-09-21T13:53:00-05:00 author: Hannah Keller canonical_url: "https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/self-care-during-breast-cancer-treatment" section: Blog --- [« View All Blogs](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog) # Self Care during Breast Cancer Treatment September 21, 2023 | Patient Education ![Photo of two women on a walk](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/_50x16_crop_center-center_none/Breast-Care-Featured-Image-1280x600.jpg) ## The Importance of Self Care Prioritize self-care with Schneck's support to enhance your physical and mental well-being, manage stress, and increase energy levels. Small self-care acts can have significant positive impacts on your daily life. While self-care is not a cure, understanding triggers and coping techniques can help manage mental health and improve overall well-being. ![People meditating in a yoga class](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/_42x65_fit_center-center_none/Breast-Care-Floated-Image-420x420.jpg) ## Exercise to Support Breast Health We encourage exercise as part of your self-care and physical health routine. Exercising can help ease treatment-related side effects, reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence, and even lower the chances of developing breast cancer. Incorporate a variety of exercises, including aerobic, flexibility, and strength exercises, into your daily routine to enhance muscle elasticity, joint mobility, and overall breast health. Here we've listed some low-exertion exercises as a starting point. - Take regular walks to be active - Stretch your muscles routinely - Work on increasing resistance Our helpful team is here to provide support and guidance throughout your fitness journey so you can make your health yours. ## Healthy ways to Treat Yourself Embrace the idea of treating yourself, as it can foster healing during challenging times. Small, affordable joys can have a significant impact on your well-being. Don't hesitate to seek out healthy experiences that bring you happiness. Take a look at the following list for a few ways to treat yourself. - Fresh fruit smoothies - Muscle-easing massages - Captivating story books Treating yourself doesn't have to be extravagant; it's about finding simple pleasures that uplift your spirits and cultivate a hopeful mindset. ## Support Groups That Can Help During challenging times like facing a major illness or significant life event, you don't have to endure it alone. Being part of a support group offers a reassuring and understanding community, providing you with valuable companionship on your journey to healing and coping effectively. With assistance from Schneck, consider joining a support group, where you can connect with others who share similar feelings, concerns, and treatment experiences. [Browse Support Groups](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services/womens-health/treatments-breast-health) ![photo of women sitting in a circle](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/_40x50_fit_center-center_none/Breast-Care-RCB-750x450.jpg) ## Mental Health Considerations It's important to recognize mental health as a vital aspect of self-care. A cancer diagnosis can bring forth emotional challenges, such as anxiety, distress, and depression, affecting you and those you're closest with. Recognizing these feelings and seeking help when necessary is crucial. Whether it's managing anxiety, identifying signs of depression, or understanding distress, our support and resources are available to help you cope effectively with the impact of cancer on your mental health. Below we've further described mental health conditions to be aware of. - Anxiety is commonly characterized by intense worry - Depression often appears as prolonged sadness - Distressed is the strong feeling of being overwhelmed If you experience any of these conditions, please seek care from Schneck Mental Health and Wellness. With proper treatment, it's possible to find hope. ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)## Your Cancer Center Providers At Schneck, our dedicated cancer center team will thoroughly address your health concerns and guide you toward a better quality of life while providing excellent medical support. ![Dr Jordan Maryfield](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/DrJordanMaryfield01-400x400.jpg) ### Jordan C. Maryfield, MD Medical Oncology, Hematology [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/jordan-c-maryfield) ![Headshot of Dr. Antonio Spates](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/DrSpates02-3x3.jpg) ### Antonio Spates, MD General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/antonio-spates) ![Doctor Amanda Dick](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/DrAmandaDick.jpg) ### Amanda M. Dick, MD General Surgery, da Vinci Surgery [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/amanda-m-dick) ![Leann Stidham](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/LeannStidham.jpg) ### LeAnn Stidham, MD Radiology [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/leann-stidham) [View All Providers](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors) ## Connect with Care at Schneck The Schneck Cancer Center is here to support you. We know it can be difficult to prioritize self care during treatment. Reach out to us so we can be there for you and offer resources. [Let's Connect](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services/womens-health/treatments-breast-health) ## Related Blog Posts When seeking support, rely on your nearby professionals at Schneck. We provide assistance to empower you in taking control of your well-being at all life stages. Explore valuable expertise in connected blogs. ![Doctor discusses test with patient before mammogram](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/About-Schneck/_30x19_crop_center-center_none/230707_Schneck_WhatToExpect-BreastCancer_Blog_Blog-HERO_1280x600.jpg) Patient Education### What to Expect with a Breast Cancer Diagnosis [Read Post »](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/what-to-expect-with-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis) ![hand holds pink ribbon close to camera, with woman in gray shirt in background](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/_30x19_crop_center-center_none/breast-health-copy.jpg) Preventative Care### Commit to Yourself: Prioritize Breast Health. [Read Post »](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/commit-to-yourself-prioritize-breast-health) [Previous Blog](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/schneck-hospice-earns-2022-shpbest-premier-performer-caregiver-satisfaction-award) [Next Blog ](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/schneck-home-health-earns-2022-shpbesttm-superior-performer-patient-satisfaction-award) [## Ready to Serve Find a Doctor ](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors) [## Comprehensive Care Medical Services ](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services) [## Locations Near You View Locations ](https://www.schneckmed.org/locations) ## Let's Keep in Touch Sign up to receive Schneck news and health & wellness updates in your inbox.