A prostate cancer diagnosis
can be stressful
Right now, you might
have persistent thoughts like:
What if the treatment doesn’t work?
What if the cancer comes back?
Why me?
These are all valid, important and personal questions. Remember that you have people in your corner (like your doctor and care team, counselor, family and friends) to help you work through these feelings. It’s OK to allow yourself to be upset and talk it out.
Counselling, support and
activities to reduce stress
NAMI
American Cancer Society
Information on support services and choosing a cancer counselor
On a day-to-day basis, there are several
things you can do to be more at ease.
Make your
follow-up appointments
Showing up to a doctor appointment is essential but it’s only one part of the visit. While you’re there, it’s important to tell your doctor or care team what’s really going on with you. They need your honest thoughts, to give you the best care and keep watch over your progress. Your honesty can help them suggest good coping strategies or even prescribe a useful medication.
Talk to your
doctor or care team
Talk to your nurse, doctor or someone else in your care team. They can help you understand your diagnosis, treatment and side effects, listen to your concerns, and put you in touch with other people who can help.
Seek out
counseling
At a time when you have so much on your shoulders, someone who’ll listen without judgment is critical. Counselors are trained on how to listen well and give you space to express yourself. They even help you find your own ways to deal with feelings and make your own decisions.
Many hospitals have counselors or psychologists who specialize in helping people with cancer - ask your doctor or care team at the hospital if this is available or if they know of services in the community you can access at low or no cost to you. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a counselor, or you can seek out a private counselor yourself.
To find out more information and locate a therapist or counselor near you, visit the
or Join a
support group
Talking to other men with prostate cancer can be a helpful way to connect with people who understand what you’re going through. Speak to your doctor for recommendations on any good local groups, or check online for ones that interest you.
You can also check out these resources:
Spiritually connect
Some men find that talking with a spiritual leader or counselor can be useful during this time. It may also help to visit places that make you feel calm, at peace, and grounded, like a lake or somewhere out in nature.
Keep a journal
When you start to have negative or worrying thoughts, write them down. This will get them out of your head, so you can focus on positive thoughts instead. It may help to share your journal with a counselor, so they can help you work through it.
Try meditation and yoga
Sitting in a quiet room can help you notice loud, negative thoughts. You might hear yourself thinking, “I’ll never get through this” or “I’m not really a man”. Meditating and thinking about your strengths and what makes you happy can turn these thoughts around. Yoga and taking gentle stretching breaks can loosen you up too.
Maintain a
healthy lifestyle
Regular exercise and eating nutritious food can boost your mood and give you energy. That positive energy can reduce your stress and put you at ease.
More on
Reduce or cut the use of
smoking, alcohol, and caffeine
Smoking, alcohol, and too much caffeine can be harmful. Cutting back or stopping these completely is recommended.
Share with your partner,
family, and friends
Being open with people you trust can lighten the load on your shoulders. Don’t be ashamed or afraid to talk through what’s bothering you. Your support system wants to help you get through it. They just need the opportunity to be there for you.
