Caregivers & Loved Ones Bladder Cancer Guide Bladder Cancer Guide Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Coping Caregiving Caring for Someone With Bladder Cancer By Colleen Doherty, MD Colleen Doherty, MD, is a board-certified internist living with multiple sclerosis. Learn about our editorial process Colleen Doherty, MD Fact checked by Fact checked by Ashley Hall on December 13, 2020 linkedin Ashley Hall is a writer and fact checker who has been published in multiple medical journals in the field of surgery. Learn about our editorial process Ashley Hall on December 13, 2020 Print Table of Contents View All Do Your Research Be Prepared to Multitask Take Care of Yourself Next in Bladder Cancer Guide Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Cancer A cancer diagnosis tends to have a rippling effect, mostly impacting those closest to the person diagnosed, like a partner or spouse, but ultimately reaching close friends, siblings, and other relatives. Whether living with, caring for, or simply serving as a listening ear to a person with cancer, it can be exhausting, both physically and mentally. But with a positive mindset and the right tools and support system, you can serve this unique role well. Here are some essential steps to guide you through loving and caring for someone with bladder cancer. Do Your Research Read up on how doctors diagnose and treat bladder cancer, including what a surgery entails and when doctors recommend removing the bladder tumor versus the entire bladder. Understanding the recovery process from chemotherapy and surgery will also allow you to be better prepared when your loved one or person you are caring for comes home. And, when you're actually reading about bladder cancer, jot down your thoughts or questions in a notebook, review them with your loved one, and bring that notebook to the next doctor's visit. Although your loved one may not want to spend their time at home discussing the nuances of bladder cancer, the fact that you took the time to learn about it is a sign of your love and respect for what they are going through. Be Prepared to Multitask As a caregiver of someone with bladder cancer, you will wear many hats, and these hats change as a person moves forward with treatment. Some roles may seem more tedious, although they are just as worthy: Driving to appointments and chemotherapy sessionsPicking up prescriptions from the pharmacyManaging a budget to determine how your loved one's cancer care will be financedCalling the health insurance company to inquire about coverage and deductiblesTaking over household tasks, like cleaning, grocery shopping, preparing meals, doing laundry Other roles are more direct and proactive: Playing an active role in making decisions regarding your loved one's care and treatment plansRelaying messages or calling the cancer care team with questions or concernsHelping your loved one recover from chemotherapy and surgery (and sometimes radiation)Serving as a support liaison, like communicating with and updating family membersProviding emotional support to your loved one—a shoulder to lean on or simply your presence will likely bring great comfort Whatever hat you are wearing during this journey, know that it is valuable. Take Care of Yourself When caring for someone with bladder cancer, it's easy to become consumed with the management of their disease. You may find that any extra moments in your day are filled with reading the condition, scheduling and attending appointments, or tending to your loved one's recovery from chemotherapy or surgery. Set Time for You But, in the end, it's vital that you take the time to tend to your own needs—not only the basic ones like sleeping, eating healthy, and exercising, but "feel good" ones too. Set aside time every day to let your mind relax, whether that means being distracted by a good book, movie, board game, or a dinner out with a friend or family member. If you have a hard time easing your worries, you may consider relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation. Spiritual or religious support may also be beneficial at this time. Establish a Backup System It's also wise to have a backup caretaker for when you need a break. Consider asking another family member to drive to a chemotherapy session one day a week or ask a friend to help you run errands. In the end, many people are available to help you but are often not sure what you need or do not want to overstep. Be specific, make a list, and do not feel guilty about asking for assistance. You need to be realistic, and by asking for help and support, you are going to be more productive and present for your loved one. Prioritize Your Mental Health It is important to understand that depression and anxiety are common in caregivers. If you find yourself being all-consumed by your loved one's cancer diagnosis and treatment and/or are experiencing symptoms of depression or debilitating anxiety, please seek help from your primary care physician or from a mental health professional. Find Support It's also a good idea to consider a cancer support network. Talk with your loved one's cancer health team, like their nurse or social worker, for resources. You can also visit the American Cancer Society to locate support programs near your home. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. American Cancer Society. Understanding The Cancer Experience When You’re a Caregiver. Updated June 6, 2016. American Cancer Society. What is a Cancer Caregiver? Updated June 6, 2016. American Cancer Society. If You’re About to Become a Cancer Caregiver. Updated June 6, 2016.