COPING & SUPPORT

When you receive a diagnosis of prostate cancer, you may experience a range of feelings — including disbelief, fear,
anger, anxiety and depression. With time, each man finds his own way of coping with a prostate cancer diagnosis. Until
 you find what works for you, try to:

      Learn enough about prostate cancer to be an effective advocate for yourself. Learn as much as you can about your
cancer and its treatment. Having a better idea of what to expect from treatment and life after treatment can make
you feel more in control of your cancer. Ask your doctor, nurse or other health care professional to recommend
some reliable sources of information to get you started.

      Look to friends and family for support. Your friends and family can provide support during and after your
treatment. Friends and family can help with the small tasks you won't have energy for during treatment. 
Having someone to talk to can be helpful when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

      Connect with other cancer survivors. Friends and family can't always understand what it's like to face cancer.
Other cancer survivors provide a unique network of support. Ask your doctor or other member of your health
 care team about support groups or organizations in your community that can connect you with other cancer
survivors. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society offer online chat rooms and discussion boards.

      Take care of yourself. Take care of yourself during cancer treatment by eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables.
 Try to exercise most days of the week. Get enough sleep each night so that you wake feeling rested.

      Continue sexual expression. If you experience erectile dysfunction, your natural reaction may be to avoid all
sexual contact. But consider touching, holding, hugging and caressing as ways to continue sharing sexuality
with your partner.