Prostate cancer is often described as a couple’s cancer. While one person receives the diagnosis, both partners live with its impact.
A cancer diagnosis can change daily routines, roles, intimacy, and plans for the future. Partners often cope in different ways. Some may seek detailed information about treatments and want to talk frequently about how their partner is feeling, while others may need quiet time to process their emotions. These differences are normal, and recognizing them early can help prevent misunderstanding and resentment.
Here are practical ways, adapted from guidance by the Canadian Cancer Society, to support your partner and care for your relationship during a cancer journey.
Talk openly and honestly
Share what you are thinking and feeling. Fear, anger, frustration, and sadness are common and natural reactions to a cancer diagnosis. Expressing these emotions with your loved one can reduce tension and help you both feel less alone. Choose the right time for important conversations – if one of you feels overwhelmed or exhausted, pause and return to the discussion later. Honest communication works best when both people feel ready to listen and respond.
Learn at your own pace
Some partners want to read everything about prostate cancer. Others prefer only the key facts. Respect these differences and decide together how much information to gather and when to share it. There is no right or wrong approach, as long as you remain open with one another about your needs.
Adjust roles and routines
Treatment and recovery can shift household responsibilities. Create a clear plan for tasks such as meals, appointments, childcare, and finances. A shared understanding reduces stress and prevents assumptions. At the same time, try to maintain parts of your normal routine – small, familiar habits can create a sense of stability during uncertain times.
Protect intimacy
Prostate cancer and its treatment can affect sexual function and emotional closeness. Intimacy may look different for a period of time. Physical affection, reassurance, and open conversation can help maintain connection even if sexual activity changes. If concerns feel difficult to discuss, professional support can provide guidance and reassurance.
Take breaks from cancer
Set aside time to talk about topics unrelated to appointments or test results. Plan simple activities you enjoy together. A walk, a shared meal, or watching a favourite show can provide relief and remind you of your connection beyond cancer. Time apart can also be healthy. Each partner may need space to rest, reflect, or spend time with others.
Watch for caregiver strain
Caregivers often focus fully on the person with cancer. Over time, this can lead to burnout. Signs may include irritability, exhaustion, or feeling overwhelmed. Caregivers benefit from support as well, and connecting with others in similar situations or speaking with a professional can make a meaningful difference.
The Prostate Cancer Centre supports both patients and their partners
The Prostate Cancer Centre has a dedicated mental health nurse who meets with all patients to assess their main concerns and life stressors. If a patient identifies challenges within their relationship during this wellness meeting, they are offered a couples counselling session with Chelsea Anderson, a Registered Provisional Psychologist who works closely with PCC patients to address specialized topics surrounding intimacy and sexual health.
Patients are provided with up to nine complimentary counselling sessions. This includes up to three individual sessions with Chelsea, three sessions for their partner, and three sessions together as a couple. This flexible approach ensures both individuals and couples receive tailored support based on their unique needs.
In addition to one-on-one counselling, our team hosts monthly in person group workshop sessions at the Prostate Cancer Centre. These sessions alternate between a couple’s group and a caregiver’s group and are facilitated by our mental health nurse alongside Chelsea. With a maximum of four couples or patients and caregivers per session, the small group format ensures that every attendee can confidently share their thoughts, feel heard, and have meaningful time to speak.
The caregivers workshop supports loved ones, caregivers, and partners as they navigate the challenges of supporting someone with prostate cancer. Participants attend individually or as a couple and work through guided exercises focused on coping skills, recognizing caregiver burnout, healthy communication, and intimacy. The workshop provides a safe and supportive space for caregivers to reflect on their own wellbeing while continuing to care for someone they love.
The couples workshop offers an opportunity to build resilience together throughout the prostate cancer journey. Participants explore how to strengthen their relationship and deepen their role as partners while learning why prostate cancer is often described as a couple’s cancer. Chelsea is present to introduce coping strategies, provide therapeutic techniques, and lead practical exercises that couples can continue to use beyond the workshop.