About this page. This is a plain English summary of emotional and practical support after prostate cancer treatment. It does not replace medical or mental health advice from your own doctor or specialist.
For full information and references, please read the detailed page.
Looking after wellbeing, not just the cancer
A diagnosis of prostate cancer, and the treatment that follows, can affect more than the body. Many men have periods of worry, low mood, or changes in identity and relationships during and after treatment. Looking after this side of things is part of good cancer care.
Common experiences
- Anxiety at diagnosis, during decision-making, and around follow-up appointments.
- Low mood or low motivation, especially if side effects are ongoing.
- Changes in how a man sees himself, his role at home or at work, and his sense of intimacy.
- Sleep problems.
- Strain on relationships, especially when sexual function or continence has changed.
These reactions are common, and support is available.
When to seek help
Talk to your GP, Dr Kooner, or one of the services listed below if:
- Low mood or anxiety is ongoing (most days for two weeks or more).
- You are losing interest in things that usually matter to you.
- Sleep, appetite or concentration are clearly affected.
- You are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide. In this case, please seek urgent help: call 000, go to an emergency department, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Involving partners and family
Prostate cancer affects partners and families too. Joint appointments, shared information, and couple-based counselling can be very helpful, especially around sexual rehabilitation and continence recovery.
Trusted Australian support services
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) - support groups, telenursing, and patient resources. pcfa.org.au
- Cancer Council NSW - information and support, including the 13 11 20 information line. cancercouncil.com.au · Call 13 11 20.
- Beyond Blue - support for anxiety and depression. beyondblue.org.au · Call 1300 22 4636.
- Lifeline - 24-hour crisis support. Call 13 11 14.
- MensLine Australia - counselling for men on emotional health and relationships. Call 1300 78 99 78.
Exercise and nutrition
Sensible exercise and nutrition are an important part of recovery. Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) recommends regular aerobic and resistance exercise for people with cancer, tailored to ability. An accredited exercise physiologist can help build a suitable program. Cancer Council Australia provides evidence-based information on healthy eating during cancer treatment.
Any exercise program should take account of bone health (especially for men on hormone therapy), heart risk, and any joint or mobility issues. It is best to check with your GP or an exercise physiologist before starting something new.
Important things to know
- You do not have to manage this on your own. Several reliable services are listed above.
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide need urgent help - call 000 or Lifeline (13 11 14).
- Counselling and mental health referrals are usually arranged through your GP.
- This page is general information only. The right support for you should be decided with your own treating team.
What you can do next
- Read the full detailed page with references.
- Short version: the men's health service.
- Short version: dealing with a new diagnosis.
- Request a second opinion on a treatment plan.
- Call 02 8382 6980 for clinic appointments.