Supportive reading
Staying on the same side as a couple
Updated:
Two people sharing a period of waiting may express their feelings very differently.
A little time to listen
Beginning with “I can listen today without trying to solve anything” may create space. The other person may also need a boundary around talking. Ask before interpreting silence or a different response as lack of care.
Not every conversation has to be about treatment
You can keep some time together for everyday life. Naming different needs may be more helpful than comparing who is struggling more.