Breast Cancer Caregiver Resources

Discover caregiving resources, programs, and tips to help you care for your loved one as you take care of yourself.

What to Expect When Caring for a Loved One

Caring for a loved one with breast cancer can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. Whether you're helping make medical decisions, offering support, or managing daily tasks, these tips and tools are here to support you.

Get answers to commonly asked questions, navigate caring for your loved one, and get self-care advice to avoid burnout.

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Ways You Can Help Someone with Breast Cancer

Friends and family can care for their loved ones who have breast cancer in many ways. Take a look at these practical ideas for offering support so your loved one can focus on healing.

Guide Through Treatment Plans

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be confusing and overwhelming. You can help support someone on their breast cancer journey by going to appointments with them. Take notes and ask questions.

Manage Daily Tasks

When you are going through breast cancer treatment, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to take care of much else. Offer your friend and family member to run errands, help clean their house, do laundry, or bring meals.

Help After Surgery

Many individuals who have breast cancer will need to go through surgery. You can help by transporting them to and from the hospital. In addition, you can help ensure their home is comfortable, clean, and stocked with recovery items, such as easy meals.

Access the American Cancer Society Caregiver Resource Guide for additional ideas

Mental Health Support for Caregivers

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities. Responsibilities may range from going to appointments to keeping track of medical bills. Many caregivers have negative impacts to their emotional and mental health. Common mental health effects include anxiety, depression, grief, and burnout. Caregivers may:

  • Feel like they don't have enough time for themselves.
  • Not get enough sleep.
  • Stress over their loved one's health.
  • Feel isolated from their friends.
  • No longer do the things they once enjoyed doing.

It's vital to seek support and community if you're caring for someone with cancer. To care for others, you need to take care of yourself.

Additional Caregiver Resources

askellyn chatbot on mobile

AskEllyn.ai: A Companion for Your Breast Cancer Journey

Whether you were just diagnosed, are going through treatment, or have a loved one with breast cancer, you deserve support. AskEllyn.ai is a free AI companion, available 24/7. Ask questions or simply receive comfort in this private and unique chat experience.

Explore Member Benefits That Support Caregivers

If you’re a Cigna Healthcare member, you may have access to benefits to help you as a caregiver.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The EAP gives you access to clinicians for a range of support, including mental and emotional support, family and relationships, and more.

Caregiver Support Program

Depending on your plan you may have access to a Cigna Healthcare Caregiver Coach. This coach can help you create a support team, understand medical and mental health options, and plan for the future.

Log in to myCigna for your Perks and Programs

Mental Health Benefits

Help manage stress and anxiety through access to therapists, counselors, and more. Get care in-person or virtually using app-based therapy tools.

Log in to myCigna to explore your mental health benefits

Not a member? We're here to help.

Even if you're not a Cigna Healthcare member, there are many resources available to you to assist you. Make sure to contact your insurance company to learn what cancer care benefits and services are available to you.

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The content provided on this web site is not medical advice and is not a substitute for medical care provided by a physician.