Counseling can improve mental well-being and quality of life for people with metastatic breast cancer. It can be one-on-one or in a group setting, whatever a person is most comfortable with. It can help improve communication with family members and enable discussion of fears about death and dying.

Support groups, if you are comfortable in them, can provide a place to belong and to express feelings. They can also ease some of the feelings of isolation that can separate you from anxious friends and family members. Many people feel an intense bond with other group members and a sense of acceptance through sharing a common experience.

Spouses and partners, family members and other loved ones may feel many of the same emotions as the person diagnosed and may also benefit from social support.

For more information, support, and to find resources in your area, call our Breast Care Helpline to speak with a trained and caring staff member. The helpline is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET. You can also email the helpline at helpline@komen.org.