Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing experience, not only physically but emotionally. For many men, the psychological impact can be just as significant as the physical symptoms.
Men’s emotional wellbeing during cancer is often overlooked due to outdated societal expectations of masculinity. Yet good mental health is a vital part of living well with and beyond cancer. Recognising and addressing these emotional needs is not a sign of weakness. It’s an important step toward recovery, resilience, and improved quality of life, particularly after a diagnosis like prostate cancer.
Fortunately, times are changing, and many more men feel confident in seeking the emotional help they need to deal with their cancer diagnosis. Later in this article, we’ll take a look at some support groups and therapies available to help men with cancer, along with some helpful wellbeing tips if you are currently facing a cancer diagnosis.
The effect of prostate cancer on mental wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis is a lot for anyone to deal with, regardless of age or gender. For men, a prostate cancer diagnosis can be particularly distressing, with the prospect of physical side effects, such as diminished sexual function and urinary control. This can understandably lead to feelings of loss and low self-esteem, resulting in anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.
If you are currently facing such a diagnosis and have concerns about your mental health, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There is absolutely no shame in acknowledging what you are going through and sharing your feelings with your care providers, medical team and loved ones (who may share many of the same feelings as you).
You will find that there is a wealth of support to help you look after your mental health and face your cancer journey with strength, resilience, and dignity.
Why mental health is often overlooked in men with cancer
There is a long-held belief in our society that men should be rugged, tough and masculine. Unfortunately, this expectation conflicts with the idea of emotional suffering and mental health problems.
As a result, many men find it difficult to talk about their mental health, often fearing judgment or feeling that they need to cope alone. This can affect all aspects of life, but is particularly detrimental when it comes to receiving a life-changing diagnosis, such as prostate cancer.
In addition, there is also a distinct lack of awareness about the emotional support networks available to men when they need them the most.
Thankfully, our society is evolving. The expectation that men should hide their feelings and tough it out is (gradually) becoming an outdated notion. So there is no need to mask feelings or “just get on with it”. Recognising and acknowledging the symptoms of emotional stress is the first step to healing and a better quality of life.
What does emotional stress look like during cancer?
Cancer affects people in different ways, but recognising the changes in yourself is the first step towards finding support and improving how you feel.
Emotional stress doesn’t always appear in obvious ways, and it can affect your daily life more than you might realise. You may feel anxious without a clear reason. Simple tasks might feel overwhelming, or you might notice you’re more irritable than usual, or struggling to concentrate.
Sleep can become disrupted, and you may feel exhausted, even after sleeping for a long time. You might lose interest in things you usually enjoy and feel sad. Another common response is a lack of motivation or feeling disconnected from those around you.
It’s not unusual to experience bursts of anger or sadness, while others might feel numb, unsettled, or confused about what they’re going through.
Experiencing all or some of these common feelings doesn’t make you weak or incapable: they are signs that your emotional wellbeing needs care and attention, in the same way as your body does.
Complementary therapies to help men with mental health issues during cancer
Many men fall into the trap of thinking complementary therapies are not for them. In fact, they are more accessible than you might think. Certain activities can be very beneficial to men dealing with cancer, helping to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall mental health.
Complementary therapies you may wish to consider are:
- Mind-body practices – Exercise such as yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, and Qigong (or any form of regular physical activity) has been shown to support mental health significantly.
- Massage therapy – Many people with cancer find that massage is incredibly soothing. Not only can it relieve physical tension, promote relaxation, and improve circulation, but it can also improve mental health, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety.
- Counselling and talking therapies – Talking to a professional counsellor is very effective in coping with anxiety, depression, sadness, frustration, and other psychological challenges. Verbalising what you are going through can really help manage the emotional stress you might feel about your diagnosis and cancer treatment.
- Nutrition and diet – As with all health conditions, a balanced diet containing a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support your overall health and wellbeing, and contribute towards good mental health.
Tips for managing your mental health during cancer
Cancer can affect people differently, and finding your own ways to look after your mental health is so important. Here are some helpful tips you may wish to try.
Connect with people
The old adage of ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ is not to be underestimated. Reach out to someone you trust, such as a friend, co-worker, or family member, for company, support and a friendly chat. Seeking support from healthcare professionals can also equip you with practical advice on how to cope with diagnosis and treatment.
Sometimes, connecting with others who have been through a similar experience can be of great comfort. It can ease feelings of isolation and help you feel heard and understood. There are many support groups in the UK to help people undergoing cancer treatment and also cancer survivors.
Here are some great organisations that provide and facilitate cancer support:
Support ranges from in-person groups to one-to-one counselling. If you feel anxious about speaking face-to-face, there are also many online forums where you can speak anonymously and confidently.
Exercise
Working out acts as a natural stress reliever, helping your body release endorphins (the feel-good chemical). Not only does it improve physical health, but it also has a positive effect on wellbeing, self-perception and body image, which can be so important when facing prostate cancer.
Breathing exercises
Breathing techniques, such as slowing down and controlling your breathing, can work wonders on your stress and anxiety levels. There is a wealth of resources available online, as well as numerous apps, that offer guided breathing exercises. Take a look at this breathing exercise from the NHS.
Research your treatment options
Take the time to carefully explore all your treatment options, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Speaking with other prostate cancer patients about their experiences can also offer valuable insight into the impact of different treatments, both physically and emotionally.
Nobody needs to face cancer alone
If you have received an unsettling prostate cancer diagnosis, don’t let your emotional symptoms go unchecked. No one should have to face cancer alone, and “being a man” doesn’t mean carrying the burden in silence.
It’s okay to ask for help, to talk about how you’re feeling, and to take care of your mental wellbeing just as well as you do your physical health. Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a brave and powerful step toward healing.
Mental health support networks for men with cancer
There are many terrific organisations run by people and medical professionals who understand what you’re going through.
Here are some professional support resources to consider:
- Prostate Cancer UK provides mental and emotional support resources for prostate cancer patients.
- Prostate Cancer Foundation, which offers a variety of support services, including counselling and support groups.
- Macmillan Cancer Support – Delivers wide-ranging help, including emotional support, financial advice, online communities, and in-person support centres across the UK.
- Cancer Research UK – Offers trusted medical information, forums to connect with others affected by cancer, and guidance on where to find emotional support.
- Life After Cancer – Focuses on the emotional wellbeing of people adjusting to life after cancer, with peer-led coaching groups and community support for rebuilding confidence.
About Proton International London
At Proton International London, we’re passionate about highlighting the mental health problems linked to men’s cancer and promoting the excellent support that is available.
To find out more about proton beam therapy, a type of advanced radiotherapy for prostate cancer, which helps reduce the risk of common side effects, please explore our website. To self-refer for treatment at our private London clinic, please fill in our enquiry form.
