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Lack of emotion normal at diagnosis?

Page last modified on: August 18, 2008

Question from dolden: I found out I have breast cancer, small lump, and we caught it early, but I don't feel anything. I'm numb. Is that normal? Am I in shock?: Answers —David Spiegel, Ph.D.: First of all, good, I am glad that you got it early. It may be that you are a bit in shock and it's not uncommon that people initially go into coping mode and can't quite believe it, and the feelings catch up after the diagnosis and treatment are over. Sometimes it is after that is all done that people start to have emotion about it and that's okay. Sometimes it takes people by surprise that they start to feel it later.; Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: The timing can sometimes be difficult because at the very time that you are hoping to get back to normal may in fact be the time that some of these unexpected feelings hit. These are normal feelings. A support group is a very good place to help work them through.

On Wednesday, October 18, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Feelings about Breast Cancer. David Spiegel, Ph.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about the emotional effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Lack of emotion normal at diagnosis?

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