Seven Ways to Support a Loved One Through Breast Cancer (and Three Things NOT to do!)

A breast cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event — not just for the person diagnosed, but for everyone close to them. In 2025, an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and over 4 million people are currently living as survivors in the country. While breast cancer is most common in women (about 1 in 8 will develop it in their lifetime), it’s important to remember that men can develop it too, and they often face unique challenges, including delayed diagnosis and a lack of awareness about their risk.

If someone you care about is facing breast cancer, here are seven practical ways to offer meaningful support:

1. Be Present and Listen
   Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is simply be there. Let your loved one talk about their fears, hopes, and frustrations without feeling the need to offer solutions. Active listening shows empathy and validates their experience.
2. Accompany Them to Appointments
   Medical visits can be overwhelming. Offer to drive or go along, take notes, and help keep track of questions and answers. This not only provides practical help but also offers emotional comfort.
3. Help with Daily Tasks
   Cancer treatment can be exhausting. Offer to cook meals, clean the house, run errands, or take care of pets and children. These small acts can relieve a lot of stress.
4. Stay Connected
   Regular check-ins — whether by text, call, or card (remember those?!) — let your loved one know they’re not alone. Even a funny meme or uplifting message can brighten a tough day.
5. Respect Their Choices
   Everyone copes differently. Respect your loved one’s decisions about treatment, sharing their diagnosis, and how they want to spend their energy. Don’t pressure them to “stay positive” or follow your advice.
6. Encourage Self-Care and Activity
   Gentle encouragement to stay active, eat well, and rest can help maintain physical and emotional health. However, let them set the pace — what feels good one day may not the next.
7. Take Care of Yourself
   Supporting someone with cancer is emotionally taxing. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest. Consider joining a support group for caregivers to share your experience and gain insights.

Three Things Not to Do

1. Don’t Disappear
   Avoid withdrawing because you’re unsure what to say. Your presence, even if it’s quiet, is valuable. Silence can feel like abandonment.
2. Don’t Offer Unsolicited Advice
   Please resist the urge to suggest alternative treatments or criticize their choices. Unless asked, keep opinions to yourself and focus on listening.
3. Don’t Make It About You
   This is their journey. Avoid sharing stories of other people’s cancer experiences unless it’s genuinely helpful. Center their needs, not your feelings.

Special Considerations for Men with Breast Cancer

Men account for less than 1% of breast cancer cases, but their needs are often overlooked. They may face stigma, delayed diagnosis, and a lack of tailored resources. Be mindful of these challenges and help connect male patients with support groups or organizations that address their unique concerns.

Breast Cancer at a Glance

• Most common cancer in U.S. women (excluding skin cancers), with about 32% of all new female cancer diagnoses being breast cancer.
• Survival rates: When caught early, the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
• Global impact: In 2022, there were over 2.3 million new cases and 670,000 deaths worldwide.
• Recurrence: The risk is highest in the first few years after treatment but decreases over time.

Supporting a loved one with breast cancer is about presence, empathy, and practical help. By following these tips — and avoiding common missteps — you can make a meaningful difference in their journey.

Where to Find More Information

For additional guidance, statistics, and support, visit reputable organizations such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Breastcancer.org, and Susan G. Komen. There are also highly regarded breast cancer support groups specifically for African American women. These reputable sites provide resources for patients, caregivers, and those seeking to learn about breast cancer in both men and women.

HEALing Breast Cancer

At HEALing Community Health, we’re here to support you on your breast cancer journey. We provide telehealth and in-person counseling to assist patients, their families, and caregivers as they face this challenging time.