What Are Helpful Ways to Support a Loved One With a Brain Tumor?

Approximately 90,000 Americans  are diagnosed with a primary brain tumor every year, the America Brain Tumor Association reports. A brain tumor diagnosis can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience for both the individual diagnosed and their loved ones.

Whether the tumor is benign or malignant, its presence can impact physical, emotional, and cognitive functions, creating challenges for everyone involved.

While you may feel powerless in the face of such a diagnosis, there are many meaningful ways to provide support. Here are helpful ways to support a loved one with a brain tumor.

1. Educate Yourself About Brain Tumors

Knowledge is power, and understanding brain tumors can help you provide more informed and compassionate support. Take the time to learn about:

• Types of Brain Tumors: Understanding whether the tumor is benign, malignant, primary, or metastatic can help you better grasp the situation
   
• Treatment Options: Familiarize yourself with treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies
   
• Brain Tumor Symptoms: Knowing what your loved one may experience, such as headaches, fatigue, or memory issues, allows you to respond more empathetically

Be cautious about sharing any information you find, as it may not always be relevant or helpful. Focus on supporting their specific needs and experiences.

2. Be Present and Listen Actively

One of the most valuable things you can do is simply be there. Brain tumor patients often grapple with feelings of fear, anger, sadness, or uncertainty. Offering a safe space for them to express their emotions can be incredibly healing.

• Active Listening: Listen without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice
   
• Nonverbal Cues: A comforting touch, a warm hug, or holding their hand can communicate your support more effectively than words
   
• Avoid Judgment: Everyone processes illness differently, so respect their emotions, whether they are positive, negative, or somewhere in between

3. Provide Practical Assistance

A brain tumor diagnosis often disrupts daily routines, making even simple tasks feel daunting. Offering practical help can ease their burden significantly.

• Help With Appointments: Drive them to medical appointments, take notes during doctor visits, and help keep track of their treatment schedule
   
• Meal Prep: Prepare nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs or restrictions
   
• Household Tasks: Offer to handle chores like cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, or paying bills
   
• Childcare: If your loved one has children, assist with babysitting or school pick-ups to give them one less thing to worry about

Proactively offer specific help rather than asking vague questions like, "What can I do for you?" For example, say, "I'll stop by on Friday to mow the lawn."

4. Encourage Them to Seek Support

Living with brain tumor can feel isolating, but connecting with others who have faced similar challenges can provide comfort and perspective. Encourage your loved one to:

• Join Support Brain Oncology Groups: Many hospitals and cancer centers offer support groups for patients and caregivers
   
• Seek Counseling: Professional therapy can help them navigate the emotional complexities of their diagnosis
   
• Use Educational Resources: Provide them with reputable sources of information, such as the American Brain Tumor Association

Respect their preferences if they're not ready to seek outside support for brain cancer but continue to gently encourage them.

5. Take Care of Their Emotional Well-being

The emotional toll of a brain tumor diagnosis can be immense. Supporting their mental health is just as important as addressing physical symptoms.

• Be Positive, But Realistic: Encourage hope while acknowledging the challenges they face
   
• Encourage Normalcy: Help them maintain a sense of routine and normalcy by engaging in familiar activities they enjoy
   
• Respect Their Wishes: If they need time alone or wish to discuss certain topics, respect their boundaries
   
• Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it's completing a round of brain cancer treatment or having a good day, acknowledge and celebrate these moments
   
• Avoid dismissive platitudes like "Everything will be fine."

6. Advocate for Them

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially for someone dealing with a serious illness. Step in as their advocate when needed.

• Communicate With Medical Professionals: Help them prepare questions for their doctor and ensure their concerns are addressed during appointments
   
• Understand Their Rights: Familiarize yourself with patient rights
   
• Help With Insurance: Assist with managing medical bills, insurance claims, or researching financial aid programs

7. Foster a Supportive Network

Managing a brain tumor diagnosis often requires a village. Coordinate with family members, friends, or community groups to create a network of support. Everyone will be willing to help; they just need to be asked.

• Organize a Care Schedule: Use tools like shared calendars or apps (e.g., CaringBridge, Lotsa Helping Hands) to coordinate meals, transportation, or visits
   
• Delegate Tasks: Don't try to do everything on your own
   
• Provide Updates: Keep loved ones informed of their condition through group emails or private social media groups, reducing the burden on the patient to update everyone

8. Respect Their Autonomy

It's natural to want to take charge when a loved one is unwell, but it's essential to respect their independence and decisions. Do the following.

• Involve Them in Decisions: Whether it's about treatment options or daily activities, let them have the final say
   
• Ask for Consent: Before taking any action on their behalf, ask if it's okay

9. Take Care of Yourself

Supporting a loved one with a brain tumor can be physically and emotionally exhausting. To be there for them, you must prioritize your own well-being.

• Set Boundaries: Know your limits and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it
   
• Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that recharge you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends
   
• Seek Support: Consider joining a caregiver support group or speaking with a therapist to process your emotions

10. Focus on Quality Time

Ultimately, the most meaningful way to support your loved one is by cherishing the time you spend together. Whether it's reminiscing about happy memories, watching a favorite movie, or simply sitting in silence, these moments can bring comfort and joy.

Support for Brain Tumor Patients and Loved Ones

Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance (CTBTA) is here to provide hope for brain tumor patients and support their loved ones. As survivors and caregivers, we've been through the trauma and life-altering changes this disease causes on both the patient and the caregivers.

We're only a phone call away. If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, reach out to the CTBTA.