Psychological Impact

Counselling

A diagnosis of cancer can be a frightening experience and you may feel quite isolated with a mix of emotions. Once diagnosed, treatment follows on swiftly and this can leave you in a state of shock while also feeling very vulnerable. Discovering that you have cancer often comes out of the blue and your initial reaction to the diagnosis may well be one of shock and then apprehension about the consequences of having cancer. It isn’t always easy to confide in family and friends about how you feel.

As well as having to deal with your own feelings and fears, you may also find that having had a cancer diagnosis and treatment impacts on your relationships in unexpected ways, adding stress when you feel least able to cope with it. Whether at the point of diagnosis, after treatment or because of recurring disease, being able to explore your concerns with someone who understands how challenging a cancer diagnosis can be, will allow you to discover your best way to adjust to and manage what has happened to you.

You may find that talking to a professional cancer counsellor can help you come to terms with certain aspects of your life. Professional cancer counsellors are aware of the issues that may be difficult to cope with. They also have the benefit of not being part of your family or friendship group.

Orchid Male Cancer Telephone Counselling Service

Orchid Male Cancer has a free telephone counselling service for men affected by testicular cancer in the UK. It offers up to six counselling sessions over the phone at a time that is convenient. It also offers a degree of anonymity which men may find beneficial, rather than talk face to face with a counsellor. For more information email robert.cornes@orchid-cancer.org.uk or view information here

Adjusting to life

Peer Support

Talking to other men who have been through a similar experience to you can be very helpful and there are several online support groups and networks.

In the UK the Testicular Cancer Network is made up of small regional charities specialising in supporting men who have been through treatment (click image for more information).

In Europe there is a similar network, details can be found here

There is also a large UK based online support group Testicular Cancer Support Group which is a closed Facebook Group. This has over 300 members who have been affected by testicular cancer and is regulated by several specialist nurses.

Reviewed 1/2024