12 December 2023
For many families impacted by prostate cancer, Christmas takes courage. Many will be feeling the loss of a loved one while others will be holding on to each day, hoping that it's special.
For those dealing with the impact of prostate cancer, expectations can be overwhelming, and the excitement of this time can be overshadowed by feelings of sadness, isolation, and loss, as familiar traditions become painful reminders of how much life has changed. Treatments may be ongoing with side effects to manage, and you may have concerns about low energy and spoiling things for others.
The following tips and strategies can help you prepare for and navigate this season with greater confidence.
Try to maintain healthy routines – eating in moderation, staying hydrated, exercising if possible, and prioritising sleep. These all help to manage stress and regulate our emotions. Use your energy wisely by being realistic about what is reasonable for you. Fatigue is a common side effect of treatment, so adjusting expectations of yourself, delegating to others, dividing activities up over the days, and accepting offers of help, can allow you to pace yourself and rest as needed.
Plan and 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 for you on the day.
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.
Putting your own needs first can be a challenge for many but do 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.
Most importantly, be kind and compassionate to yourself this Christmas. This is the best gift you can give yourself, whether you’re feeling in the festive spirit or simply prefer to relax and rest.
Should you need further support during the holiday break our Telenursing team will be on the lines Monday to Friday (9am- 5pm AEDT) except public holidays (Christmas day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day). To speak with one of our specialist nursing and counselling team please call 1800 22 00 99 or email us requesting a call-back via telenurse@pcfa.org.au or counselling@pcfa.org.au.
If you need crisis support, please contact your GP or one of the following organisations for assistance:
Lifeline 131114
MensLine 1300 78 99 78
Beyond Blue 1300 2246 36
In the event of an emergency always dial 000.
If you need medical advice 24/7, please call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
