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mental health support

Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2021 4:22 pm
by Guest Posts
My partner is hugely low after having a prostate operation I have no idea how to start helping him. It was easy when there were physical things to help him with after the surgery but now as he gets better and stronger his mental health is rapidly declining - any help welcome.

Re: mental health support

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2021 9:12 pm
by info@lorrainegrover.com
Following a cancer diagnosis many people experience a huge variety of emotions. These emotions can ebb and flow and take people by surprise. Initially when the focus is often on the surgery things can feel quite structured, as you have mentioned it was easier helping with 'physical things'. Our physical health also affects our mental health, especially when there is sudden change and then time to reflect on situations. Clinical Psychologists are an important part of cancer care teams as they are able to provide a confidential and safe environment for patients (and sometimes their families) to talk about their emotions and help with coping strategies. It is difficult for men to talk about their emotions, they have often been brought up in society not to do so. I and others within men's health and the prostate cancer community hope to help bring about a change and normalise these discussions. Your partner needs to know many men experience psychological changes, talking about it is paramount. His GP, Urologist or Clinical Nurse Specialist will hopefully be able to direct as to who is in your area.