Terminal Husband help with mental state

My husband has been given 6 months to live.  Since the news 2 weeks ago he is now in a bad mindset.  We seemed to have pain management under control , which is good but his life is bedroom to sofa and toilet.  He has now decided for comfort purposes the sofa is a better place for him to sleep(recliner). 

I have suggested a simple drive out and about for a different view but he is saying he can't go out due to the discomfort....or he doesn't want to. It seems he is giving up.  The problem is we have a 10 yr old and I have tried to get me husband to make simple happy memories with his son. He won't even play a game of cards. How can I support my husband and get him thinking more positively?  He won't speak to a therapist. Has anyone got any advice or suggestions to try and make the next few months or weeks more pleasant for my son? 

Thank you in advance.

  • Hello Mull, 

    This is so sad to read. This is a really difficult time for you and a time when you would want to be making memories with your little one but it sounds like your husband is too frail physically and mentally to enjoy going out or to even play a game of cards. It's hard to know what to do really and you can only do your best and you are doing amazingly just being there by his side, making sure he gets to see his son and spends quality time with him. It's a shame that he is not willing to speak to a therapist - perhaps you could try and talk to his GP or medical team in the first instance and see if they can put you in touch with someone who can help with the mental side of things. You are really doing what you can in the most difficult circumstances and I just wanted you to know our community is there for you and I hope that they will have some helpful tips and suggestions for you. 

    I think the simple fact of being there for him, of doing simple things which are not too tiring or demanding for him like watching a film with your little one will mean a lot to your husband and perhaps you could simply talk to him about what he fancies doing with you and his son, how you can have as enjoyable a time together as is possible. 

    Feel free also to give our nurses a call if it all feels a bit much sometimes and you just want to talk to someone. Their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and you can get in touch with them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes to you, your husband and your son - I just wanted you to know you are not alone and we are thinking of you and sending you all a big hug, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator