This practical, science-based book focuses on helping partners, family, and friends understand breast cancer. It guides them in how to provide the best emotional and practical support when helping someone with breast cancer to cope, recover, and thrive, while maintaining their own physical and psychological health.
The authors translate psychological evidence into concrete, practical advice for caregivers, validated through their first-hand experience. It also suggests ways to help someone with breast cancer make the best decisions in consultation with oncology professionals. The authors draw on well-established psychological principles relevant to social attitudes, how decisions are made, good communication skills, empathy, and how to better understand the ideas and worries experienced by women who have, or may have, breast cancer and those close to them. Each chapter includes ‘How you can Help’ sections that give specific and concrete suggestions, as well as a chapter summary of the main points along with recommendations and additional resources.
It is essential reading for all those who want to help and support a loved one with breast cancer. It is also useful for training healthcare professionals in how to support partners.