The Importance of Prioritizing Your Health: Breast Cancer Awareness & Early Detection

Oct 15

At LiveWell Psychology, Dr. Tomasula often works with individuals who juggle multiple responsibilities—whether it's managing careers, family life, friendships, or other personal goals. In the midst of all these demands, it's easy to let your own health take a back seat. For many, the idea of self-care is synonymous with relaxation and leisure. While these are important, true self-care is more fundamental—it involves safeguarding your physical health, and a crucial part of that for many women is regular screenings for breast cancer.

The Emotional Weight of Prioritizing Our Health

Many people experience guilt or fear around putting themselves first, especially when others rely on them. For women, especially mothers or caregivers, the idea of prioritizing their health can feel selfish. Yet, it’s the opposite. By taking care of yourself, you ensure that you’re there for the people you love and for your future.

Unfortunately, it’s common to dismiss or delay check-ups, like mammograms, because we’re busy or because we don’t want to deal with the possibility of bad news. This can be especially true when there are no immediate signs that something is wrong. The truth is, early detection is a critical component in the fight against breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Facing Fears Around Breast Cancer Screening

For many, the thought of getting a mammogram or performing a self-exam can stir anxiety. The "what if" questions loom large—What if I find something? What if I have cancer? These are deeply human concerns, and it’s important to acknowledge that it's okay to be scared. The fear of uncertainty is valid, but avoiding it can lead to worse outcomes in the long run. At LiveWell Psychology, Dr. Tomasula helps clients work through these fears by reframing the situation: Instead of focusing on the fear of finding something, we can focus on the power that early detection gives us over our health.

Early detection gives you options. It means that if there’s something to address, you can tackle it with the widest range of treatments and support systems available. It means you’re investing in your future.

The Importance of Regular Screenings and Self-Exams

Breast cancer doesn’t always come with symptoms. By the time there are visible signs like lumps, breast changes, or pain, the cancer might already be in an advanced stage. That’s why regular screenings—such as mammograms—and self-exams are so important. They allow us to catch cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.

For women aged 40 and over, it’s recommended to get an annual mammogram, but for those with a family history or genetic predisposition, this may begin earlier. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you. In between these exams, monthly self-breast exams are a proactive step you can take. Familiarizing yourself with your own body can help you detect any changes early on.

Mental Health and Self-Care

The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable. When we prioritize our physical well-being, it can alleviate anxieties, foster resilience, and provide us with a greater sense of control over our lives. On the flip side, neglecting our health can contribute to feelings of anxiety, fear, and helplessness.

Self-care means listening to your body and making health a priority. It means booking those doctor appointments, setting reminders for self-checks, and talking openly with healthcare providers about any concerns. It also means giving yourself permission to seek help when health-related anxiety surfaces.

Breaking the Cycle of Neglect

For many, a shift in perspective can be transformative. Instead of seeing health check-ups as interruptions or an inconvenience, try viewing them as acts of empowerment. These are the things that allow you to take control of your future, to be proactive, and to protect yourself. You are your own best advocate.

If you’re someone who struggles with prioritizing your health, it’s worth considering how those patterns developed. Was self-care not emphasized in your family growing up? Are you used to putting others first? Do you feel like time for yourself is selfish? Understanding these emotional barriers is the first step in breaking the cycle of neglect.