No matter how long it’s been since you first had breast cancer, finding out that the cancer has metastasized, or spread, may bring feelings of shock, disbelief, anger, betrayal, and sadness.
You are not alone. Research shows that 20-30% of people first diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will develop metastatic disease.
In the news, there’s often a focus on the experiences of people who have completed treatment for early-stage breast cancer. The lack of public awareness about metastatic breast cancer can leave you feeling isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported.
How did this happen?Even with the best treatments for early-stage breast cancer, it’s possible for the cancer to return later. There was always a chance some cancer cells might survive and cause metastases someday, even if that chance was very small. There are a lot of different ways this can feel. Some people feel a loss of trust in their doctors or treatments, anger at their medical team, or anger at themselves. It’s important to remember that there is nothing you did to cause a recurrence. As you learn more about your diagnosis and your treatment options, these feelings will evolve and change. Support is available — whether it’s friends and family, a breast cancer support group, a professional counselor, or all of these. |
Emotional support comes in many forms. Each person’s emotional history and needs are unique, so what works for one person may be different for someone else.
If you are feeling stress, anxiety, or depression, you may want to explore seeing a professional counselor or therapist. Ask your care team or hospital social worker for a referral. Ask any potential therapist if they have experience working with people who have metastatic cancer.
Support groups offer the chance to meet others who’ve been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. These groups can offer emotional relief, strength, and friendship with people who understand in ways that others may not.
To learn more, visit:
You can also connect with others through online and in-person Living Beyond Breast Cancer events, including the annual Thriving Together Conference on Metastatic Breast Cancer.
The gift of
“Fortunately, I found social media support groups for people diagnosed with MBC … While my friends and family were compassionate, these groups gave me something more: connection with people who truly understood. I no longer felt alone.”
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Reviewed and updated: February 14, 2026
Reviewed by: Hester Hill Schnipper, LICSW, BCD, OSW-C
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Living Beyond Breast Cancer is a national nonprofit organization that seeks to create a world that understands there is more than one way to have breast cancer. To fulfill its mission of providing trusted information and a community of support to those impacted by the disease, Living Beyond Breast Cancer offers on-demand emotional, practical, and evidence-based content. For over 30 years, the organization has remained committed to creating a culture of acceptance — where sharing the diversity of the lived experience of breast cancer fosters self-advocacy and hope. For more information, learn more about our programs and services.