Coping and Sharing the News

Telling Your Workplace

Deciding whether or when to work during and after breast cancer treatment is a personal choice. Work can provide routine, structure and a sense of identity. It can also offer distraction from medical appointments and a chance to maintain social connections with others. At the same time, working during treatment or returning too soon can feel overwhelming. For example, fatigue, pain and trouble concentrating can make work more difficult. 

Financial impacts of a diagnosis can also play a major role. The needs to maintain income or benefits mean some people have little choice but to continue working during treatment or return to work earlier than they would prefer.

At the Time of Diagnosis

When you are first diagnosed, take some time to understand your treatment plan before making decisions about work. Once you have a general idea of what treatment(s) you will need, and how long it will take to recover, you can decide how work may fit into your plans.

You may choose to:

• Take sick leave
• Continue working while you sort out next steps
• Work reduced hours

There is no “right” timing. Your decision will depend on your health, your finances, the type of job you have, and your personal preferences.

Who to Tell and What to Share

You are not required to share your diagnosis with your workplace unless you want to. However, if you need sick leave, reduced time, or workplace accommodations, you will need to inform certain people.

You may choose to talk to:

• Human Resources (HR): to ask about your options for leave, benefits, disability supports and accommodations
• Your direct manager: to coordinate schedules, workload accommodations, or time off
• A trusted colleague: if you have a colleague that you are close with, they may be able to offer you emotional support or help with tasks

You only need to provide enough information to explain what your needs are. For example, if you have medical appointments or need temporary changes because of side effects. You do not have to share details about your diagnosis unless you choose to.

If your employer requests medical documentation, your healthcare team can provide you with a note describing your needs or limitations without disclosing your private health information.

Consider keeping records or documenting:

• Requests for accommodations
• Emails or notes from meetings
• Agreements about modified duties or schedules
• Any instances where you felt unsupported or treated unfairly

Having written records makes it easier to follow up if plans change or if you need any additional support.

The Canadian Cancer Society has a database that can be used to find local support services in your area. You can access it below:

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