Support for friends and family

It’s natural to want to do everything you can to support a loved one with prostate cancer. Emotional support from family and friends can really help someone with prostate cancer.

Talking with a loved one who has prostate cancer can be challenging.  You might not always know what to say or how to say it, but communication is one of the most important ways you can offer support.

If you are worried about saying the wrong thing, it’s okay to be honest about this with your loved one. Telling your loved one you’re unsure of how to help can open up a conversation about their needs and feelings, allowing them to guide you on the best way to support them.

You may also find it helpful to read our common thoughts and feelings for men with prostate cancer. Having a better understanding of these emotions can help you to support them.

Bad days are normal

Your loved one will probably have good days and bad days. You may find that some days they feel down, struggle with fatigue or not want to communicate. It’s important to remember that ‘bad days’ are normal.

Seeing a loved one go through this can be upsetting, and you may feel guilty that you can’t help or provide the support you want. But talking to your loved one about how you’re feeling can help. If you don’t feel you can do this, try talking with a friend or family member. You don't have to go through this alone.

If your loved one’s mood doesn’t improve, or if you’re concerned that they may be struggling emotionally, it may help to reach out to a professional, like a counsellor, doctor, or nurse, for additional guidance. You can also speak to our Specialist Nurses about how you’re feeling.

Ask how you can help

If your loved one has prostate cancer, you may also be struggling with the diagnosis. It can be difficult knowing how best to support your loved one while managing your own feelings and emotions. It can help get things out in the open. There’s no perfect thing to say – sometimes you might just need to listen. Macmillan Cancer Support has information about how to talk to someone with cancer.

Your loved one or friend may already know how you can support them. Asking them what they need or how you can help, can help them to feel more in control.

Some people find it hard to accept emotional support, or may not want it. Try not to take this personally. Respect their decision but let them know if they change their mind, you are there to listen and support them.

Try offering support in a different way, you can also help by offering practical support. This could include:

• driving them to their GP or hospital appointments
• making meals or doing their shopping
• picking up prescriptions or medicines
• helping around the house, for example cleaning.

Be kind to yourself

It’s important to look after yourself – this is a difficult time for you too. You might feel like you need to stay strong for others or keep everything together, but your own wellbeing matters just as much.

Ways to look after yourself:

• take regular breaks to rest, even if just for a few minutes
• talk to someone you trust about how you're feeling
• do small things that you enjoy and that help you relax, like going for a walk, reading, or listening to music
• eat well and try to get enough sleep
• Say "yes" to offers of help from others, you don’t have to do everything alone
• Speak with a counsellor or support group if you’re feeling overwhelmed
• remind yourself that your wellbeing matters too.

For more information on supporting a loved one with prostate cancer, and on looking after yourself, read our information for partners and family members.

My loved one has died, how can I get support?

When someone close to you dies, it can be very upsetting and difficult to come to terms with. Grief can bring up a wide range of emotions. You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, loneliness, uncertainty, fear and anger. These are all normal emotions and feelings to experience. You are not alone, there are ways you can feel more supported.

For many people, being with others helps them manage their feelings and come to terms with their loss. Friends and family can be a great source for support and comfort during this difficult time.

Getting Support

You can call our Specialist Nurses on 0800 074 8383, or join our free online community. Remember, there’s always someone you can talk to.

You could try contacting your local community palliative care team, who can provide support if you’ve lost a loved one. If your loved one died in hospital, you may be able to get support from the hospital’s palliative care team.

You may also want to contact other organisations who specialise in helping people deal with loss and grief.

• Cruse Bereavement Support have information and a free helpline for anyone who is dealing with bereavement or grief.
• Sue Ryder has an online community where you can chat to others who are experiencing grief.
• Samaritans and Mind also have information and support if you’re finding things difficult to deal with.

Find more useful organisations to help you deal with loss and grief.

Reviewers

Updated July 2025 | Due for review July 2028