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When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, their primary focus is typically on treating the disease itself with interventions like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation. But what many might not realize is how cancer can affect the mind in addition to the body. Survivors frequently face emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness. These mental health struggles can be just as overwhelming as physical symptoms for some patients, impacting their quality of life long after treatment ends.

Thankfully, recent research is shining a light on how something as simple as exercise can play a big role in helping breast cancer survivors manage these emotional ups and downs. If you or a loved one has experienced the emotional toll of breast cancer, you'll want to read on–because there's promising news about how movement can make a difference.

The hidden toll of breast cancer on mind and body

Breast cancer is a journey that impacts all aspects of life. Alongside physical issues like fatigue, pain, and limited mobility, many survivors experience emotional struggles. Anxiety about recurrence, depression stemming from changes in body image, and general emotional distress are common challenges faced even after treatment ends.

While prescription medications and talk therapy are often used to help manage these mental health concerns, they're not the only options. Physical activity–something accessible and manageable for most patients–has been shown to support mental wellbeing in several ways. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, so–called “feel good” chemicals that naturally boost one's mood, and it's also been found to improve energy levels and sleep quality.

Study shows that exercise boosts breast cancer survivors' mental health

A group of researchers wanted to know: Can exercise really help ease anxiety and depression in breast cancer survivors? To find out, they gathered information from 25 high–quality studies involving more than 2,500 women who had survived breast cancer. They compared how different types, amounts, and styles of exercise could affect mental health in these women.

The results were clear: regular exercise significantly reduced both depression and anxiety among breast cancer survivors. Multicomponent training–which mixes different exercises like aerobic movement, stretching, and strength work in a single session–was especially effective. Survivors who participated in these routines three or more times per week, with sessions lasting about an hour, saw the biggest drops in their depression and anxiety scores.

Aerobic exercise (like brisk walking, dancing, or cycling) also helped ease depression, though resistance training alone (lifting weights or using resistance bands) showed less effect. Importantly, exercise programs were safe for most people, with very few side effects reported.

How physical therapists can help

While physical therapists cannot provide mental health treatment (that's a job for psychologists and other professionals), they can play a crucial role in helping cancer survivors get moving again. For people who may feel weak, uncertain, or afraid to exercise, a physical therapist can do the following:

• Design a personalized exercise program tailored to each patient's abilities and needs


• Offer support, encouragement, and expert advice on safe movements


• Guide survivors as they gradually rebuild strength, regain confidence, and take charge of their recovery

Exercise is not a cure for depression or anxiety, but it's a powerful tool that, when added to other kinds of care, can help survivors feel more like themselves again. Small, consistent steps make big changes.

Are you ready for change?

If you or someone you care about is a breast cancer survivor dealing with anxiety or depression, don't wait. Our physical therapy clinic is ready to help, and we can work together with your healthcare team to get you moving safely and confidently. Call us today to schedule your first appointment and take a step toward healthier days for your mind and body.

Curious about the science? Read the full study here to discover how regular exercise can change lives beyond the treatment room.