While Christmas is a time of joy and laughter for many Australians, for some men living with prostate cancer it can be a challenge.
In this article, our Specialist Cancer Counselling team share some practical wisdom to help you make it through any stress of the festive season while coping with a cancer diagnosis.
Most importantly, remember to take the advice you'd offer to a friend and always practice self-caring and compassion. And if you need us, please call on 1800 22 00 99. Our Telenursing team will be on the phones during ordinary business hours throughout the Christmas period.
Our tips:
- Plan ahead. Discuss your needs and limitations with others. Explore options that save time, energy and finances if you are exchanging gifts. Encourage flexible arrangements in case of changes and have an alternative plan if things become overwhelming on the day.
- Use your energy wisely. Be realistic. Fatigue is a common side effect of treatment so adjusting expectations of yourself, delegating to others, dividing activities over the day, and accepting offers of help, can allow you to pace yourself and rest as needed.
- Connect with your values. Regardless of the challenges prostate cancer brings, reflecting on your personal values can help guide your focus to what is really important to you. If you value kindness - you might consider how you can be kind to others, if you value nature, you might spend some time appreciating the garden, or further afield. This can take the emphasis off what is troublesome, to simple things that are meaningful to you and give you pleasure.
- Create boundaries you are comfortable with. Putting your own needs first can be a challenge at this time. Give yourself permission to get through the festivities the best way you can. Be assertive and limit questions about your health if you would prefer to take the focus off cancer, steering conversations to lighter, more enjoyable topics. Taking care of yourself emotionally and conserving your energy will allow you to enjoy however you choose to spend the festive season.
- Maintain healthy routines. Eating moderately, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular exercise all help regulate our stress and emotions.
Being kind and compassionate to yourself this Christmas is a gift you can give yourself, whether you're feeling in the festive spirit or simply prefer to relax and rest.
