Be kind to yourself during Men's Health Awareness Month

Your health matters

November is known for both prostate and pancreatic cancer awareness - the time of the year to highlight these cancers. However, we all know that any cancer can occur any month. So our nurses’ message to all men in Ireland today is to take note of any changes or symptoms you’ve noticed and talk to your GP. Here are some useful tips for how to get the most out of your appointment.  

Of course many symptoms are not related to cancer, but are you sure what you have noticed isn’t? Many men put off going to their doctor. Life can be busy, they don’t want the cost of going or maybe they are afraid. This is very understandable but if you have any health concerns of your own do not put them off. See your doctor sooner rather than later. The longer you leave cancer the harder it is to treat. 

Lately we are hearing callers say they will wait until Covid is over or GPs are not seeing anyone. Not true. GPs want their patients to contact them, and clinics are operating in hospitals. Here is some information on how virtual clinics are happening. 

Don't worry alone, talk to someone

Throughout Ireland there are men with worries related to cancer. They may well have friends and family they can talk to. But not everyone does, and some people would find it easier to talk to someone they don’t know. We want you to know that you can speak to our cancer nurses about your concerns.

You can talk to us even if you’re well - your partner may be sick and you’re not sure how to support them or you’re feeling worried or stressed about them. You might have a friend worried that their cancer might come back and you don’t know what to say to them. You might be worried about your father with advanced cancer in a nursing home and you can’t visit him at the moment. What can you do that will let him know you care? 

These are only examples of why men ring our cancer nurses. There are so many aspects to a cancer diagnosis that cause worry and stress – whether you have cancer or know someone who does. Covid restrictions have made all of these worries worse for many. Talking to a nurse even about worries that cannot be ‘fixed’ can be helpful and can alleviate some of your stress.

Asking for support can be empowering

Often when you share a problem or a worry with someone who is not emotionally involved but cares and is trained in cancer nursing it can help. When either yourself or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer or struggling with the treatment and uncertainty it can make you feel powerless and resentful. It can help you to feel in control if you understand the cancer, treatment and support available better.  

Speaking to a cancer nurse can help you know the things you can change and help you to cope with the things that you can’t. Learning to live with uncertainty is hard. There are no easy answers. Sometimes ‘bringing in the goal posts’ and seeing how you can improve this week can help. The main thing is it is ok to talk about your worries and seek support.

Most importantly, be kind to yourself

Men can often find themselves the main carer for someone. Some feel happy in this role, even if they’re tired and stressed most of the time. It’s easy to feel you are not getting it right but it is important to remember that your best is good enough.

During this Covid pandemic, caring has become harder for most. Opportunities to share the responsibility are less. Getting out and taking time just for you are harder, but it’s important to try fit in any activity that gives you pleasure like a walk or listening to music or phoning a friend. Self-compassion will protect you from burnout - it will also make you feel happier and more resilient.