When someone hears the words “You have breast cancer”, the impact is not only on the body — it reaches the mind, heart, and soul. In India, many women silently carry emotional stress during treatment. They worry about family responsibilities, financial pressure, body image, fertility, and social judgement. While medicines and therapies focus on fighting cancer cells, an important question often goes unasked:
Can emotional wellbeing affect immunity during breast cancer treatment?
The answer is yes — more than we realise.
Understanding the Mind–Body Connection
Our body and mind are deeply connected. When we feel calm, hopeful, and emotionally supported, the body functions better. When we feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed for long periods, it affects hormones, sleep, appetite, and — importantly — the immune system.
The immune system is the body’s natural defence. During breast cancer treatment like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, immunity is already under stress. Emotional distress can add another layer of burden.
How Stress and Anxiety Affect Immunity
When a person is constantly stressed, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol. In small amounts, cortisol is helpful. But long-term stress keeps cortisol levels high, which can:
1. Suppress immune cell activity
2. Reduce the body’s ability to fight infections
3. Slow down healing and recovery
4. Increase fatigue and inflammation
Many Indian women undergoing treatment say things like:
“I don’t want to cry in front of my family.”
“I have to stay strong for my children.”
While strength is admirable, unexpressed emotions can quietly weaken the body.
Depression and Loneliness During Treatment
Breast cancer treatment can feel isolating. Hair loss, body changes, hospital visits, and lifestyle restrictions may make women withdraw socially. In some cases, stigma or lack of understanding adds to the loneliness.
Studies show that depression can lower immune responses, making patients more prone to infections and slower recovery. Emotional pain does not stay only in the mind — it reflects in physical health too.
Can Positive Emotional Health Improve Immune Function?
The good news is — emotional wellbeing can support immunity.
Women who feel emotionally supported often show:
1. Better sleep quality
2. Improved appetite and digestion
3. Lower stress hormone levels
4. Better treatment tolerance
Positive emotions such as hope, gratitude, connection, and acceptance help balance the nervous system. This balance allows the immune system to work more effectively, even during intensive treatments.
The Role of Family and Social Support in India
In Indian culture, family plays a powerful role. Emotional support from spouses, children, parents, or close friends can make a big difference. Simple acts like:
1. Sitting with the patient during treatment days
2. Listening without judgement
3. Sharing household responsibilities
4. Encouraging rest instead of constant “be strong” advice
These actions help reduce emotional stress and indirectly support immune health.
Small Emotional Care Practices That Help
Emotional wellbeing does not mean “staying positive all the time.” It means allowing emotions to exist without guilt. Here are some simple practices that help:
1. Talking openly: Speaking to a counsellor, survivor group, or trusted person
2. Mindful breathing or meditation: Even 5–10 minutes daily
3. Journaling: Writing fears, thoughts, and small wins
4. Prayer or spiritual connection: For those who find comfort in faith
5. Gentle movement: As advised by doctors — yoga or short walks
These practices calm the nervous system, which supports immune balance.
Emotional Wellbeing Is Not a “Luxury”
In breast cancer treatment, emotional care is not optional or secondary. It is part of healing. A woman is not weak if she feels scared, angry, or tired. Acknowledging emotions is an act of strength.
Doctors treat the disease. Medicines attack cancer cells. But emotional wellbeing supports the body that is fighting the battle.
Dr. Pragati Singhal
