Can a Breast Cancer Diagnosis Really Cause PTSD?

Throughout her 25 years as a psychotherapist, Kelly Grosklags has counseled many women who have faced a breast cancer diagnosis. As a Board Certified Diplomat in clinical social work and a Fellow in grief counseling, Kelly shares with us her thoughts on breast cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It is a fairly new mindset in the field of oncology to view the diagnosis of cancer as a traumatic event that can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. We’re more familiar with using this terminology in relation to people who have experienced war, violence, or a horrific accident. I have found that many of my patients will experience at least one of the symptoms of PTSD after the shock of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. The most common symptoms I see in PTSD include:

• Re-living an event, which can result in flashbacks or nightmares.
• Avoiding situations or conversations that can bring up the traumatic event.
• Feeling abnormally negative, guilty, shameful, afraid and/or emotionally numb.
• Experiencing prolonged disinterest in activities and distrust of people.
• Feeling restless, jittery, and always on alert.

Studies show that women are more likely to develop PTSD than men, and women with a previous history of exposure to trauma prior to breast cancer are at a higher risk of developing symptoms.

I have seen it often: intense anxiety followed by numbness when a person hears the words, “You have cancer.” One woman said it was like fire went through every cell of her body when she heard the news. Life felt surreal for days after.

After treatment is complete, I often see a hyper-awareness of the body. People notice each sensation and wonder if it’s related to cancer or possible recurrence. I think the healthiest approach is to avoid shaming yourself for any feelings you experience. If we spend our energy judging our feelings rather than supporting ourselves, we’ll have less energy for healing and activities that promote wellness.

We need to be very gentle with ourselves during this time, and limit over-stimulation. Gentle music, relaxing baths, time spent in nature, and support from others who understand can help soothe us and keep us grounded. I do recommend that people seek professional support if experiencing one or more symptoms of PTSD. We can see these symptoms develop initially, or even a year or two after diagnosis. Sometimes women will struggle the most with their emotions after treatment is complete. That may be the time when the “feelings of cancer come flooding in.”

Experiencing these symptoms is nothing to be ashamed of. It can be VERY traumatic to face a cancer diagnosis. It throws people into a land of uncertainties, loss, discomfort, and fear. What I do know is that surrounding yourself with trusted people, including your healthcare team, will help you to ease the symptoms of PTSD. People want to feel supported and connected, not alone. Most things can be tolerated if we don’t feel isolated in our experiences. With the right amount of knowledge, support, resources, and hope, you can diminish the anxiety and be on the path to healing from PTSD.

Thank you, Kelly, for offering your perspective and knowledge! For more information about breast cancer and PTSD, see the recent article on Psych Central referencing an important 2016 study led by researchers in Munich, Germany.