Health 2025
“Before I can become an expert on anything, I must first become an expert on me.” Charles F. Glassman
This week’s conversation is about health and as October (for me) is an important month as it celebrates both mental health and breast cancer awareness – both of which I believe to be important. We cannot have good mental health and wellbeing if we are worried about our own physical health and/or a chronic condition.
Mental Health Foundation Australia highlight that the month is to promote mental health and foster positive mental wellbeing and a sense of belonging. In the same manner, breast cancer awareness month aims to increase awareness, promote early detection and support those impacted by breast cancer.
As both a mental health professional and a breast cancer advocate, both support and information are needed for both. Working in health, I was quite naïve about the number of people who are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Whilst the numbers for males are only a small percentage, many males love and live with women and the journey is a team sport, in which we all participate or witness from the sidelines.
Living through the cancer treatment can be overwhelming, it is a new experience and for me, it was difficult sitting in the “other chair’ of the unknown. Anxiety and fear were present and uncomfortable along with all the other treatments and side effects. Lots of losses; control, hair, the ability to work full time, driving on certain days, time commitments. Being part of a system that I did not know and watching my partner being struck by carer fatigue and that it was me making him unwell. Complications from my treatment was also another cross to bear.
Sitting on the other side and now five years post diagnosis and surgery, life is looking good. I have my appointment with my surgeon yesterday and as expected, I have been discharged from her care. My oncologist discharged me the year prior. My recent mammogram and ultrasound have been reviewed by my General Practitioner, and no concerns were noted. The surgeon also looked at these at the review and noted all clear.
So, I encourage you all to do the necessary checks for breast cancer and take the recommended mammograms and/or ultrasounds as they could save your life. I also encourage you to seek assistance if your mental health declines due to health or life stressors – you do not need to go through any difficulties alone. There are a range of treatment options available, from phone lines to telehealth and face-to-face. Rebates and fully subsidised sessions are also available for those who are eligible.
Your health and wellbeing start with you, so please get to know yourself well.