As if the physical trauma of prostate cancer is not enough, men who are diagnosed with the disease face mental health issues, which are not sufficiently catered for. 

That’s according to University of South Australia researchers who want more support for men both during and immediately after a diagnosis of prostate cancer. 

“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian men. But despite high survival rates, psychological issues are one of the most frequently reported unmet needs among prostate cancer survivors,” lead researcher, Dr Tenaw Tiruye, said. 

The study tracked mental health issues among 13,693 South Australian men with prostate cancer, finding that 15% began mental health medications directly after a prostate cancer diagnosis, with 6% seeking help from mental health services. 

Dr Tenaw Tiruye said the study highlighted an acute need to offer mental health services and support for all men diagnosed with prostate cancer. 

It’s an important finding, not only highlighting the percentage of prostate cancer patients who seek mental health supports, but notably, those who do not. 

The study concluded mental health screenings should be incorporated in routine prostate cancer diagnoses.  

“Prostate cancer can take a serious toll on the mental health of men throughout all stages of the illness – including diagnosis, surveillance, treatment, and follow‐up – with an estimated one in six people experiencing clinical depression. 

“In fact, the rates of depression and anxiety among prostate cancer patients are significantly higher than those in the general population, as is the risk of suicide.” 

The study found that 15% of patients started anti-anxiety and antidepression medications at the time of their diagnosis, and that 6% looked for mental health support. 

The researchers say this shows that men are more likely to commence psychotropic medications (drugs) than seek out mental health services, but also shows a significant gap in those men who have not sought help. 

Fewer than a quarter of men ask for help when it comes to their mental health. 

The reasons are unclear but include the stigma of mental health and fear about being seen as weak. 

“So, rather than waiting for men to proactively seek out mental health supports once they’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, we should be offering supports at the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment,” senior researcher, Dr Kerri Beckmann, said.  

“Only by normalising mental health discussions, can we improve access to wellbeing tools and services, to ensure that men with prostate cancer have every opportunity to voice their struggles and receive the support they need.”