When you hear the news of prostate cancer, in addition to the initial shock, it is not uncommon to be in denial and feel sadness, fear, anxiety, shame, guilt, and anger all at the same time. In other words, your emotional health is turned upside down. Relatives often go through the same range of emotions. This is completely normal. Statistically, following such a diagnosis, almost 30% of people suffer from depression, and a little more than 15% experience severe anxiety.

Same story on the treatment side when it comes to dealing with the side effects, and even more so with side effects related to hormone therapy, chemotherapy or other treatments for advanced cancer. These are stressful and life-changing events. It is normal to feel lost, anxious, nervous, sad, tired or depressed.

However, even without the presence of severe symptoms, it may be advisable to consult a psychologist and be supported by a social worker in your area to help you, and your family, to overcome this emotional ordeal and, let’s say – overwhelming situation. In fact, almost 50% of men with prostate cancer will need psychosocial intervention at some point during their journey.

What are the symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression? Click here to learn more

The causes of anxiety and depression?

It is important to understand that this is not a sign of weakness or failure, or of your inability to cope with your diagnosis or treatments. Anxiety and depression can be triggered in different ways for everyone.

Who can help

The first person who can provide psychological help is your urologist. He will be assisted by your radiation oncologist if you need radiotherapy or your hemato-oncologist if chemotherapy becomes necessary. These specialists know the repercussions of the treatments and understand what you are going through. They can, therefore, help you manage your expectations.

So, when distress or difficulties arise, several healthcare workers can come to your aid. The choice of a specialist is primarily based on the nature of the problems presented, but also according to your preferences. Do not neglect your family doctor, as he/she can, like your specialist, help you; he/she will take into consideration your entire state of health and will refer you, if necessary, to the right specialist or health professional.

Talk it over

Start by talking with one person about your feelings – it can be your partner, family member, friend, or someone who has had a similar experience with cancer. Just start a single conversation to open up and take action to feel better. Consult our Support section and do not hesitate to speak to our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. You can reach them seven days a week at 1 855 899-2873.

See Practical tips to make you feel better

Take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease with our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you.

Do you have any questions or concerns? Above all, do not hesitate. Contact us at 1 855 899-2873 to discuss with a nurse specializing in uro-oncology. It’s simple and free, like all our services.

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Sources and References
What you need to know about your partner’s prostate cancer. UsToo.org. http://www.ustoo.org/PDFs/Partners_Program_Guidebook.pdf. Accessed January 10, 2020.

Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved – 2020