Conquering the Fear of Breast Cancer Recurrence with Laura Lummer
I really had to work on managing that fear so that it doesn't paralyze me, so that it doesn't turn into something bigger, and so that the decisions I make in my life aren't based on or around that fear of a recurrence.
Facing the fear of breast cancer recurrence can feel like a never-ending battle. Laura Lummer, a two-time breast cancer survivor and certified life, health, and nutrition coach, knows this all too well. In this episode of 'The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach', Laura dives into her personal experiences and offers practical advice for managing this common fear among survivors.
Nearly 40% of breast cancer survivors experience moderate to severe anxiety about recurrence, and Laura shares how she's learned to navigate these choppy waters without letting fear take the helm. She breaks down the crucial differences between worry and anxiety, explaining how each affects our mental and physical well-being. While worry might prompt proactive steps, anxiety can create emotionally charged mental images that are harder to shake off.
Laura offers actionable steps to keep anxiety at bay, like finding a stress-reducing practice that resonates with you and sticking to it consistently. She also emphasizes the power of accountability in fostering positive change. Setting up a system where you check in with someone can make a world of difference. Laura's approach is not just about managing fear but transforming it into a catalyst for a better life post-cancer.
She encourages listeners to trust the process and stay consistent in their efforts. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to turn their fear into strength and create a life that's even better than before their diagnosis.