This guide offers practical methods to help you lower the stress of ongoing treatment for metastatic breast cancer. Explore common feelings and choose from a variety of tools to help cope with uncertainty. In this brochure, you will learn:

• The scope of emotions you may have after a diagnosis of stage IV breast cancer
• The value of finding solutions to stress
• The differences between acute and chronic stress
• Common situational triggers
• Ways to talk to your spouse/partner, children, friends, doctors and co-workers

We pay special attention to methods of self-care that help you cope with stress and anxiety: getting information when you want it, exercise and good personal connections. Other tools we explore are:

• Spirtuality, relaxation techniques and yoga
• Creative arts, laughter and pets
• Support groups and counseling
• Professional counselors and online groups

This guide was written with the assistance of healthcare professionals and women living with metastatic breast cancer.