The diagnosis of a loved one can have a big impact on your life, so make sure you look after yourself. This is important for your sake and so that you can support your loved one. Select the options to explore some ideas on how to do this.
There’s no ‘right’ way to deal with your emotions so try to go easy on yourself, and don’t expect to have all the answers.
Finding out all you can about prostate cancer can help to make you feel less anxious and more in control of your situation. It can also help to prepare you and your partner for the impact of prostate cancer and side effects of treatment.
Whether it’s practical support or just talking to someone about your feelings and thoughts, make sure you get support. Don't feel you have to cope with everything yourself. Support can be from health professionals, support groups, online forums or even friends and family.
Make sure you look after your own health. If you are feeling down, tired or unwell, talk to your GP.
If you or your partner reduce your working hours, this could impact on your financial situation. You may be entitled to certain benefits and grants. It can help to get some financial advice to make sure you’re getting all the help you need.
- Do something nice for yourself – at least once a week. This could be lunch with a friend, visiting the library or going to the shops. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you focus on yourself for a short time.
- Keep a diary – try this for 15-20 minutes for 3 days in a row. Write down your feelings and thoughts, or think about the emotions you’re going through. You might find this helps you understand your feelings better.
- Gentle exercise – this could be walking, swimming or gardening. Gentle exercise can improve your mood and help you cope with stress.
- Draw on your strengths – think about a time or situation in the past that was difficult, but that you got through. Think about what worked then and how you might be able to use these strengths now.