Sleep and Your Partner or Carer
Living with cancer may affect your sleep and may also have a significant impact on your partner or carer’s sleep. This is often due to care and concern, as partners and carers may sleep more lightly, knowing they might need to assist during the night, whether it’s for medication, comfort or trips to the bathroom. Your partner or carer may also have their own worries.
Over time, broken or reduced sleep can take a toll on a carer’s physical and emotional wellbeing. It can also add strain to relationships, especially when both people are dealing with fatigue and worry.
If you are a partner or carer and feel you need support, please contact the clinical team or reach out to Adult social care who may be able to offer support.
Strategies for Supporting Better Sleep – For Both of You
- Breathing techniques: Gentle breathing exercises before bed can help to release physical tension and calm the mind. They are simple to learn and can be done together or alone.
- Worry time: Set aside 10–30 minutes earlier in the evening to write down any worries or thoughts. Getting concerns out of your head and onto paper can make it easier to relax at bedtime.
- Establish a routine: A consistent bedtime routine helps signal to the body that it’s time to wind down. Include calming activities like reading, gentle stretches or listening to soothing music.
- Talk it through: Open conversations about sleep challenges and how they’re affecting each other can help you find shared solutions and feel more supported.
- Practical adjustments: If one partner wakes frequently during the night, consider changes such as separate beds or using a monitoring system to minimise disturbances.
Looking after your own rest as a partner or carer isn’t selfish it’s essential! Sleep is a foundation for being able to support someone else and taking care of yourself helps you both cope better through cancer together.