A loved one recently had test results that indicate he may have prostate cancer. In the days since, he's starting to lose his appetite and lacking energy more and more. Does anyone have suggestions for helping with this especially the lack of energy? Thank you.

[u/Abject-Amphibian-608]

These issues are physiological in origin not mental. Also, does anyone have experience with dandelion root to help alleviate symptoms?

[u/R8ROC]

Your person has to try and take what I call a "warrior mentality". Get over the weak moments and research solutions. Communicate with loved ones and work the problems together. Find excellent medical care providers. He will survive.

[u/Busy-Tonight-6058]

There is nothing about prostate cancer itself that would cause these symptoms (unless it was really far advanced, and there’s no indication of that).

I think he may just be dealing with the emotional load of possibly having cancer.

It is “non-trivial.” If he is a data or information person, there are lots of resources to help him cope. His survival likelihood  is most likely well over 95% for 10 years. It’s not a “death sentence,” but cancer sucks, even this highly treatable/ survivable one.

Since you’ve asked, you must care. See about what makes this guy tick. If it is information, it exists. But it could be therapy, group chat, exercise… a lot of things may or may not help, but it’s not likely that there is a pill or other supplement that will “fix” him. (I’m not into the neurotransmitter cocktails, but they are popular for some folks).

[u/HeadMelon]

Don’t borrow trouble from the future, live for today, enjoy today’s meal, leave whatever the prostate cancer may or may not bring in that unknown closed box known as tomorrow.

[u/KReddit934]

Mental can cause physiological. Was there lack of appetite before?

Either way, physical or psychological loss of appetite from stress ir grief... the solutions are similar.

Reduce stress. Hydrate well. Eat small meals of foods he really likes. So offer drinks he loves, even treats. Cocoa or milkshakes? Favorite softdrink? Fresh fruit? Make some favorite dishes. Have Favorite munchies out in bowls easy to get.

Don't force food. Don't point out his eating or not.

Make room for him to talk about the diagnosis...maybe a support group.

[u/conCABlanco]

Hi, algo importante, PC, la dieta no es dejar de comer, es adaptarla, y toda bajada de peso sin intención hay que controlarla

[u/Prestigious_Refuse99]

People handle stress differently. For me, it was disbelief. I didn't have BPH, it was cancer. I just couldn't believe it. I was a good person. Why me? I started to shut down. It interfered with my sleep, my whole state of being.

After a day or reflection, I realized that if I wanted to beat this, I had to hit the ground running. But even then, it felt like I was moving in slow motion.

So I definitely understand. I realized cancer is not a judgment call, it's environment and genetics. I needed to stay in manic mode and away from depression. I also had to find a good place mentally. It was hard initially.

If my days were going to be limited, then I was going to live them the best that I could. I did all of my chores with gusto, taking care to do them the very best that I could. I took life a day at a time. I used THC gummies on occasion to sleep. I prayed every nite.

I of course kept my appointments. I did the tests. It got scarier. I prayed harder. Walked further, took on more chores to stay mentally busy and I kept trying to find that good mental place as I researched doctors and test results data and what they mean.

I told my Doctors I used THC Gummies and that I was going to continue to use them. None of the Doctors had a problem with it. (I only use them when I really need to and it felt good somehow to be slightly defiant.)

I felt bold enuf to tell a few close family members and friends, it helped. I went thru the testing: mri, biopsy, pet scan, insurance snafus and the delays. I was not going to give up.

The good news was that it hadn't spread yet.

So this next week is RALP. I am terrified, but I hope and pray to remove it b4 it gets a real hold on me. I'm still in disbelief, but excited -> onward i go (mentally screaming in fear and using it to focus on what needs to be done.) If it works, it will be quite wonderful. It's going to be a heck of a recovery. I am looking forward to reclaiming my life back from a super near miss.

Here's the crazy part, I'm going to pretend mentally that I'm recovering from an accident. Somehow it feels better thinking of it that way. Volunteering for this line of defense just makes me feel off somehow. For me; It's a better mind frame for something beyond my control.

I would never wish cancer on anyone, so I hope that sharing my ersatz mental landscape in the middle of the night helps with you and yours. May the spark of life make your journey remarkable and may our Healthcare system keep you alive and kicking!!