Prostate Cancer Mind-Body Medicine

Mind-Body Medicine for Prostate Cancer

Mind-body medicine at CTCA supports you and your family before, during and after your prostate cancer treatment. The team provides tools and techniques to help you and your family cope with any physical and emotional issues that may arise during your cancer fight.

Many men with prostate cancer worry that they won’t be able to perform sexually or will become incontinent after treatment, and many men also worry that they will not be able to have children. Our licensed mind-body therapists conduct prostate cancer support groups, provide counseling for patients and their partners and help them get clear answers to all of their medical questions from the oncology team.

We also realize that caregivers play a big role in your treatment and healing process, and they need support in managing their own emotions and concerns. At CTCA, caregivers can meet one-on-one with a mind-body therapist to address the stresses and concerns.

Prostate Cancer Counseling & Support Groups

The following activities, classes and relaxation therapies are just some of the mind-body therapies we offer to reduce stress and improve quality of life. These services are available to patients, caregivers and their families:

• Individual, Couples and Family Counseling. A mind-body therapist schedules at least one visit with every inpatient to introduce the options available in this department. It’s your decision if you would like to continue meeting with a therapist.
  
• Guided Imagery. A relaxation technique that teaches patients to use positive mental images to manage stress and physical discomfort. Guided imagery can be used to help prostate cancer patients deal with their pain, nausea and anxiety, and can also help support the immune system.
  
• Deep Breathing Exercises. Therapists work with patients on an individual basis to teach deep breathing as a relaxation and stress management technique.
  
• Laughter Therapy. These sessions provide a safe place where patients can laugh. Research has shown that laughing can reduce stress, improve pain and balance blood pressure.
  
• Reiki. A gentle, hands-on practice that uses specific techniques to help restore and balance the body’s energy, strengthen its ability to heal, reduce stress and increase peace of mind.
  
• Qigong. This ancient Chinese healing art uses a series of soft, flowing movements to focus the mind and body. Qigong is taught to help reduce stress, build stamina and enhance the immune system. The gentle movements also increase lymph circulation, which is important for cancer patients.
  
• Smoking Cessation Support. Mind-body support is available to help patients quit smoking through individual counseling, acupuncture, deep breathing and guided imagery. Patients are also encouraged to call their prostate cancer mind-body medicine team when they are in need of support or experiencing nicotine cravings.

Our mind-body therapists work closely with your entire cancer treatment team and are here to support you in making ongoing care decisions. In addition, they can connect you with prostate cancer support groups, counseling and qualified practitioners in your area once you return home.

Next Topic: Oncology Rehabilitation for Prostate Cancer