CommunitiesRelationshipsShould I live separately from my partner during cancer treatment?

Should I live separately from my partner during cancer treatment?

ES

Community Member

3 months ago

Has anyone else had the feeling of you love your partner but feel it would be better mentally if you lived separately? I love him dearly but he stresses me out ever since he moved in with even worse since my diagnosis. He hovers so much it drives me nuts I don't say anything because I'm afraid he won't understand any advice?

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8 comments
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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Many people in cancer treatment find that managing relationships and personal space becomes more complex during this challenging time. It's completely understandable to need different living arrangements that support your mental health and well-being, even when love remains strong. Consider having an open conversation about your specific needs for space and independence - many couples find that honest communication about these feelings, while difficult, can actually strengthen their relationship and create better support systems during treatment.

3+ patients found this helpful

KB

Community Member

3 months ago

I’ve always felt that, even before my diagnosis. I just need a lot of alone time. Talk it over with him gently, no blame, no judgment. Compromise is always possible.

1
LJ

Community Member

3 months ago

You can talk to him but it always good to have someone around and talk about other things . You can explain how you feel and with no offense

2
ES

Community Member

3 months ago

It's so hard to talk to him about this stuff because my past relationship beat me every time I would wanna talk about stuff like this so that fear is very much there

KB

Community Member

2 months ago

Wow, makes it hard. Maybe start with that and how hard that makes it for you to talk about things

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Many people in cancer treatment find that managing relationships and personal space becomes more complex during this challenging time. It's completely understandable to need different living arrangements that support your mental health and well-being, even when love remains strong. Consider having an open conversation about your specific needs for space and independence - many couples find that honest communication about these feelings, while difficult, can actually strengthen their relationship and create better support systems during treatment.

EM

Community Member

a month ago

Hi Elizabeth, It is definitely mentally hard on everyone dealing with cancer so I suggest talking to him and coming to an understanding. I’ve been living with my partner and we had some adjustments and growing pains and through it all we talked about how we feel. I more than understand his feelings which is part of the process. I hope all is well. 🤗🦋

DR

Community Member

14 days ago

Mine goes from end of the spectrum to the other , from hovering to being snarkey after I spent the day in chemo. I got home , with mild abdominal pain. Carried in a 40# bag of stove pellets. Then he wanted to get food. But doesn't have a clue where he wants to go, but I needed to make bank deposit while he decided where he might have a hankering for. He decides Taco bell, apparently I made a face cause he tried to put the burden back to me to decide , I drove him to taco bell. His hearing has abandoned him and if I repeat myself 1 more time I'll go mute and just write him a note

MH

Community Member

11 days ago

Well , since my diagnosis I’ve been expecting my husband to be more caring and supportive . He acts like nothings wrong . Shows little interest in My treatments and symptoms . I’m starting to think “God forbid” if I get very sick with this , I’ll have to move In With one of my 5 sisters to take care of me . Isn’t that sad!!

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