Every year, over 24,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, making it the most common cancer among men in Australia. While the survival rates are high, with 96% of men surviving for at least five years after diagnosis, the impact on mental health can be significant. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are higher among men with prostate cancer compared to the general population.
A recent study conducted in South Australia analyzed data from 13,693 men diagnosed with prostate cancer between 2012 and 2020. The study tracked medication prescriptions for antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, as well as the use of mental health services like GP visits and psychiatrist appointments, five years before and after the diagnosis.
The study found that the use of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications increased from 34.5% to 40.3% after the diagnosis, and the use of mental health services rose from 10.2% to 12.1%. The most significant increase in the use of medicines and health services occurred around the time of the prostate cancer diagnosis, indicating a need for early intervention and support.
However, the study may have underestimated the true impact on men’s mental health, as it only considered services subsidized by Medicare. Men may be less likely to seek help from mental health services due to various reasons, including a preference for medication over therapy or the stigma surrounding mental health.
Research suggests that men are generally less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to women. To address this, early intervention is crucial. Incorporating mental health screening into routine prostate cancer diagnosis processes can help identify issues early on and provide timely interventions and support.
Improving access to mental health care for men with prostate cancer is essential. This may involve increasing the number of subsidized mental health sessions under Medicare, expanding counseling services offered by organizations like the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, and normalizing mental health discussions to encourage men to seek help when needed.
In conclusion, supporting men with prostate cancer is not just about physical treatment but also addressing their mental health needs. By providing early intervention, expanding access to mental health services, and promoting open discussions about mental health, we can improve the overall well-being and quality of life for men diagnosed with prostate cancer.
