Breast Cancer and Marriage_ How to Support Your Spouse with Breast Cancer

1. Breast Cancer and Marriage: How to Support Your Spouse with Breast Cancer Most people know that breast cancer can intensely affect a woman’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health. However, breast cancer also wreaks havoc on relationships as couples try to navigate breast cancer and marriage. If your spouse has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there are several ways to support them during their journey. Giving Breast Cancer Emotional Support to Your Spouse Be an Active Listener Actively listening to your partner can be incredibly beneficial during the trials that come with breast cancer. Hearing them talk about hard topics may be difficult, but listening to them is an excellent way to show you care. Become an active listener by: Putting away distractions. ● Avoiding interrupting your partner. ● Giving cues that you are listening, such as nodding your head. ● Making eye contact as they speak. ● Show You Care in Other Ways Listening is not the only way to give your spouse breast cancer emotional support. Writing loving notes, giving sentimental gifts, and showing physical affection such as hugs can bring comfort and show love to your spouse during treatment. Likewise, planning a small getaway or date night, if possible, allows you to enjoy one another’s company in a new setting. Give Practical Support The side effects of breast cancer can make it difficult for your spouse to carry on with everyday activities. Giving practical support can be a helpful way to show your love. Washing dishes, cooking, helping with chores, and running errands can ease some stress during treatment. Attend Appointments Once your spouse is diagnosed with breast cancer, there will be many appointments with healthcare professionals in the Oklahoma breast health network. Some appointments may

2. be tough, so your attendance may offer comfort. Be sure to ask your spouse if they would like you to attend, as they may want to go alone. Take Care of Yourself Breast cancer impacts not only those diagnosed but also the families. To effectively support your spouse during breast cancer treatment, it is crucial to take care of yourself. Attending counseling, maintaining healthy eating and sleeping habits, and allowing alone time for yourself can help you support your loved one better. Navigating Breast Cancer and Marriage with Project31 Breast cancer profoundly impacts women and their spouses, and it can be hard to navigate alone. At Project31, we are committed to building a strong Oklahoma breast health network for women and their families. Alongside monthly support groups, we offer scholarships for women and their families to receive professional counseling to heal the wounds left behind by breast cancer. Please get in touch with us today for more information about our services.