How to Support Someone Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

A prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for not only the patient, but also you, their loved ones, as well. As their support system, you may feel worried and have many questions, like “What is prostate cancer?” “Is prostate cancer curable?” “How do I support someone with prostate cancer?” Yet, with some gentle guidance, you can be the encouraging and comforting friend, partner, or family member they need from diagnosis to treatment. 

Understand the prostate cancer diagnosis

It’s normal to be fearful after a friend or family member receives a prostate cancer diagnosis. By taking time to understand your loved one’s diagnosis accurately, you can show up informed and more prepared for the journey ahead.

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland and typically affects men 65 and older. Due to its slow-growing nature, prostate cancer symptoms often don’t appear until later stages, which is why early screening is so important. Some common symptoms include:

• Difficulty with urination

• Fatigue

• Bone pain

• Erectile dysfunction

• Weight loss

• Abdomen swelling and pain

While many men with prostate cancer live long lives, the disease can become serious if it grows quickly or spreads beyond the prostate. Your loved one’s treatment plan is often personalized to their diagnosis and lifestyle, taking the type and stage of the tumor, its location, the patient's age, and overall health into consideration before recommending care. Treatment options include:

• Active surveillance

• Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy)

• Radical prostatectomy

• Cryotherapy

• Hormone therapy

• Radiation therapy

With the right care team and open communication, both the patient and the support system can feel confident in care decisions.

How to emotionally support someone with prostate cancer

When someone you love receives a prostate cancer diagnosis, the emotional toll may be just as challenging as the physical one. As a friend or family member, you may wonder how you can support someone with prostate cancer in ways that support their mental health.

Your gestures don’t have to be grand to make a difference. Even small acts of emotional support can bring comfort and remind your loved one that they are not alone. While personalized gestures of kindness are ideal, there are a few simple ways you can help lighten the emotional load your loved one may be feeling:

1. Listen: Sometimes the greatest gift is creating space for your loved one to share their feelings.

2. Be patient: A prostate cancer diagnosis may cause emotions like fear, anger, or sadness. Remember, these are natural responses.

3. Be present: Attending appointments together can help ease nerves and provide reassurance.

4. Encourage connection: Support groups or connecting with others who are on the same journey can help them feel understood.

5. Foster positivity: Uplifting words of encouragement and empowerment can spark hope in difficult moments.

6. Check in often: A simple call or visit shows you care. Don’t feel pressured to discuss their diagnosis and treatment—sometimes, a distraction is what they need. 

Practical ways to support a loved one during prostate cancer treatment

While care teams focus on the treatment, loved ones play a vital role. Beyond emotional encouragement, hands-on support can reduce stress, ease side effects, and bring comfort through each stage of care. Knowing how to support someone with prostate cancer practically can help your loved one feel supported and cared for.

1. Offer transportation assistance: Driving your loved one to and from prostate cancer treatment sessions can ease their fatigue and lessen the load for others in their support system.

2. Help with daily tasks: Cooking healthy meals, doing laundry, or running errands can provide much-needed time for rest and recovery.

3. Organize a care calendar: Coordinate with family and friends to ensure consistent and balanced support, preventing caregiver burnout.

4. Curate a peaceful environment: Learn what your loved one wants before, during, and after treatment, such as favorite snacks, blankets, or movies, to ensure they are as comfortable as possible.

5. Create a medication schedule: Try creating an easy-to-follow schedule, setting alarms, and organizing their medications to help them stay on track with their care.

6. Encourage routine: Work with your loved one to create a routine that allows for time to rest, socialize, and exercise.

Caring for yourself while supporting someone with prostate cancer

When you’re focused on how to support someone with cancer, it can be easy to push your own needs to the back burner. In between checking in on your loved one with prostate cancer, check in on your health and wellbeing, and see if you could benefit from a bit of self-care.

1. Find a cancer support community: Try joining a cancer caregivers support group to find comfort with those who understand what you’re managing.

2. Prioritize your sleep: Get eight hours of sleep daily to maintain energy and mood.

3. Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet isn’t just for the patient. Eating healthy can protect your health won’t fall behind during this challenging time.

4. Find time for what you love: Remember to find joy and peace in what you love. Take time to brush up on an activity you love or a book you’ve wanted to read.

For more assistance, talk with your loved one’s prostate cancer care team to find supportive resources to ease the emotional toll you may be feeling. 

Learn more about our prostate cancer treatment options to see how your loved one may benefit from our advanced services, like minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery.