My loss of interest or function was something my wife and I discussed and by supporting each other and involvement in activities we both enjoyed, showing affection to each other and giving emotional support we are quite content without. Avoid pornography and anything else that can erode your relationship. Developing other interests and bring involved in helping others elevates your thinking and gives purpose to life
I think you have to learn to go with the flow. My hot flushes are worse at night. A positive is saving on gas as the heating isn't on as much! If I am very tired I let my body dictate. At the same time I try to stick to a routine of activity, walking, exercise, meeting friends, hobbies and activities associated with my religious group. I get help with what I can't do or look for ways of making adjustments to get things done.
Don't bottle it up. If you can find someone who doesn't mind being bored, bore them with your feelings!! Prayer and meditation on positive things. Don't isolate yourself. Be careful not to make major decisions while in an emotional state. I like to look at the options before major purchases. Don't be rushed by anything!!! Phone surveys about your roof, heating, solar panels etc and especially financial advise where you need to say yes or you will miss out on the bargain of a lifetime..AVOID LIKE THE PLAGUE! NEVER give credit card details etc. to anyone you don't know thoroughly. This will avoid so much stress. Live a simple life. Go out for a coffee and a snack. We enjoy 2 or 3 day road trip type breaks where you get a change of scenery, favourite hotel or Airbnb deals. Find quaint village pubs and sit by the fire nursing 1 pint for 2 hours! Think how much you can save on the heating at home without spending too much ! Think out of the box! Body image is a myth. Don't let yourself go. Look after your appearance and dress classy! Thats classy not expensive. I keep scruffy stuff for the back garden but out and about a bit of flair lifts your mood and you might be mistaken for a film star!!
Mainly tiredness and the hot flushes. Sometimes I just couldn't sleep so I got up and did housework, cleaning, hobbies. Other times I didnt get up until lunch time as I was that tired. The hot flushes made me feel uncomfortable and tense. Especially at night while on the hormone therapy and now my treatment has finished mainly at night but I need to wear zip up or button up jumpers I can quickly undo or take off until the flush passes I learned to cope though rather than let them dominate me.
Yes
The benefits outweigh the negatives. I have been able to adjust and learn different ways of approaching life and situations
By sharing your experience of prostate cancer on the infopool you can help others. Your experience is valuable as they go through their own journey. Help make the prostate cancer community stronger.
