COPING WITH CANCER
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People react very differently to being told they have cancer. There is no right or wrong way. Your feelings are normal for you. Many men feel overwhelmed and out of control. Others feel angry and naturally most men worry about the future. This chapter focuses on practical tips when you have been told that you have cancer. Emotional and Wellbeing Tips • Talking to others o At a chosen suitable moment, consider discussing your diagnosis with loved ones. You can support each other, and your diagnosis may affect them as much as it does you. They, too, will be worried, angry, and upset o Express your feelings – cry if you need to. There is no shame • Do not blame yourself for your cancer diagnosis – anyone can get prostate cancer and there is nothing you could have done to avoid it • Ask for help if you need it. One example is to ask a loved one, friend or neighbour to drive you to your appointments so that youCommon do not Questions need to worry about driving, parking or being late because you cannot find1.aCan space to park in I live without my prostate? a man can without his prostate. • Ask for help around the house with shopping,Yes, cooking, orlive cleaning if you need it The whole prostate may be removed for
• Keep doing things you like to do, such as having anorafternoon nap, walk with cancer part of it when it isaenlarged and causing symptoms. nature, listening to music. It is key to do things that make you feel better and more relaxed 2. What conditions other than cancer
can affect theeasier prostate? • Keep a journal or a diary of how you feel – it is sometimes to see things when • Benign (non-cancerous) enlargement they are written down called BPH • Prostatitis or inflammation • Try to stay active – it is important to be physically fit for- infection your cancer treatments of the prostate.
• Eat healthy, well-balanced foods. Eat regularly
3. Do biological women have a prostate?
• Avoid drinking excessive alcohol to cope withNo. what has happened
• Find out what makes you relax. This could be4.meditation, breathing How big can the prostate exercises get? There is no real upper limit. or listening to music • A small sized prostate has a volume
• Do not be afraid to ask for more formal help through your GP with talking therapies, of 30-40ml sized prostate has a volume such as counselling. Some people find talking• Atomedium a stranger in a one-to-one of 40-80ml confidential and safe environment incredibly helpful • A large sized prostate has a volume
• There may be local prostate cancer support groups, which help patients and their greater than 80ml. partners. The hospital team will know about any such groups in your local area FIGHTING PROSTATE CANCER - A SURVIVAL GUIDE
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