Psychological wellbeing
If you have prostate cancer, it is normal to have a wide range of feelings and emotions such as shock, sadness, anxiety, anger, fear and frustration. You may also experience physical effects of stress like nausea, stomach upsets, feeling irritable or on edge, and trouble sleeping. Some days will be worse than others.
It can help to talk through your problems with a partner or good friend, gather information and advice from trusted sources, and focus on keeping well.
If you are distressed and having trouble managing, talk to your GP or a member of your healthcare team. You could join one of our support groups, our online community or read our resources at pcfa.org.au.
Feeling distressed and urgently need help?
Call Lifeline 13 11 14 or
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
Physical activity and exercise
Physical activity is very important for maintaining and improving your physical and psychological health. It is important to do some physical activity most days, if not everyday. Targeted exercises can help slow the progression of your prostate cancer, reduce the side effects of treatments and enhance your recovery. Exercise can also improve your quality of life and help with anxiety and depression.
The most effective forms of exercise are:
- cardiorespiratory exercise such as fast walking, jogging, cycling and swimming
- resistance training exercises such as lifting weights, stair climbing and high intensity resistance workouts.
Diet and nutrition
A healthy, balanced diet can improve your strength, vitality and wellbeing, help you manage your cancer experience, and improve your outcomes from treatment.
For the best diet:
- eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrain foods and lean meat, fish, poultry and low-fat dairy • avoid animal fats, processed meals, biscuits, cakes and pies, salt and added sugars
- drink plenty of water
- limit alcohol.
- stop smoking.
Information on wellbeing, diet and exercise can be found in Understanding health and wellbeing with prostate cancer.
Join PCFA’s online community
A free prostate cancer resource where you can read the latest research blogs, watch videos and access the chat forum to share your experiences, ask questions and learn from the experience of other community members. onlinecommunity.pcfa.org.au
