How a brain tumour diagnosis can affect communication in your relationship

A brain tumour can affect many parts of your life, including your relationship. Here we discuss what a brain tumour diagnosis could do to the communication in your relationship and what you might be able to do about it.

Communication is at the heart of all relationships. It can help us solve problems, ease our fears and the right words can even make our day.

But the practical and emotional challenges a couple faces after a brain tumour diagnosis can make it harder to communicate. Not only can a brain tumour cause speech, language or comprehension difficulties, you may simply struggle with what to say to your partner.

Communication in your relationship: Finding words after a brain tumour diagnosis

If you’ve recently found out you have a brain tumour, it can be hard to break the news to your loved ones and you may not even be ready to talk about it yourself. Denial is a natural reaction to have and can affect both people in a relationship.

When emotions are overwhelming: How communication in your relationship can break the silence

If you’re worrying about upcoming treatment or dreading the results of the next scan, it may feel easier to bottle up your emotions. You may see this as wanting to protect your partner’s feelings or not be a burden on them.

You might also think that talking about relationship issues isn’t as important when faced with the life-changing reality of a brain tumour diagnosis.

Taking small steps: Rebuilding communication in your relationship through simple habits

One way to help you communicate better is to set aside ten minutes to talk when you know you won’t have any interruptions. Take turns to talk about how you feel for five minutes.

You don’t need to go through this alone though. Relate offers a wide range of content to help people experiencing relationship difficulties.