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.