Psychiatrist: What Women With Breast Cancer Need Most is Friend Who Listens

Women diagnosed with breast cancer frequently discover that what they need most is a good friend who will listen.

"It's not because people are being mean," said Dr. Lois Friedman, associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Baylor College of Medicine.

"Sometimes, it's a case of friends not knowing what to say. Rather than risk saying the wrong thing, they stop calling at all," Friedman said.

Friends also are often tempted to offer unsolicited advice or insist that the patient keep a positive attitude, which isn't always the best thing to do, said Friedman. "Although optimism is a useful copying strategy and very helpful in a variety of ways, first you need to grieve. Only by initially grieving can you then take on a more optimistic view."

"Breast cancer presents many challenges," said Friedman. She said the best thing friends can do is just listen. "You don't really have to say anything. Just be available and listen."

Other Sources: Baylor College of Medicine