You may not have all of these emotions, but it’s normal to have a range of emotions as you progress through treatment. Here are some emotional states that are similar to Kübler-Ross’s Five Stages of Grief:
Emotions at Your Diagnosis:
- Denial and Shock – "This can’t be true."
- Anger, Rage – "This isn’t fair." "Why wasn’t I protected from this?" "Why me?"
- Stress and Depression – "My life is already busy, I can’t stop to deal with this." "I feel so sad." "Why should I get treatment? I’ll die anyway."
- Grief and Fear – "I’m going to die, but I don’t want to." "I’m going to lose part of my body." [health, attractiveness] "I will never feel safe again."
- Acceptance, Adjustment – "Okay, it’s true. I’ve got breast cancer, but I don’t have to like it or let it define who I am."
- Fight and Hope – "I’m going to fight for my life! I’m getting all the help and support that’s out there for me."
