Counselling for me (carer/partner), us re couple counselling. Partner has newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

Dear Gayehcd0183,

Thank you for contacting us. I'm really sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis of multiple myeloma and that you feel you need counselling and a strategy and support. I do understand how difficult a diagnosis like this can be so I hope I can make some useful suggestions which may help you access the relevant support. This may then alleviate some of the signs of strain you describe, which can often be a result of the worry and helplessness you feel about the situation.

People can react very differently when a cancer diagnosis is confirmed, especially when the fear and anxiety of the unknown can become overwhelming. This can often be the case for the patient and the loved ones of someone with cancer and there is no right or wrong way to deal with this - our booklet Cancer and Relationships discusses this in more detail.

You may also want to have a look at our website page Macmillan - emotional support for family and friends, which has some really useful guidance which may also help. And please know you can get in touch whenever you feel you need some emotional support or someone to talk to - you can find the details of our freephone support line below or you can use our live web chat option, both are available seven days a week, 8am to 8pm.

Firstly though, it may be worthwhile speaking to your GP to discuss the strain you feel as they may be able to refer you for some counselling to help you manage your emotions as you try to process your husband's diagnosis. And if your husband has a clinical nurse specialist assigned to him then you can also speak to them about accessing counselling and support too.

There may also be support and perhaps counselling available via a local cancer information and support centre so if you think this may help, then please put your postcode into our website via the link below to find your local centre:

In your Area

I really hope this information is helpful Gayehcd0183. And as advised, please remember we are here for emotional support too as we understand how difficult a situation like this can be so please do get back in touch if you have any questions or need further support.

Take care,