Healing Together: Mental Wellbeing After a Skin Cancer Diagnosis with Dr Stephanie Cowdery

5 min read

We invited Dr. Stephanie Cowdery, a cancer care research fellow, to discuss the importance of caring for your mental wellbeing following a skin cancer diagnosis.

Being diagnosed with skin cancer can bring uncertainty and anxiety, so prioritising your mental wellbeing is more important than ever. In the early days following a diagnosis, it’s common to feel overwhelmed or in shock. You may feel a range of emotions, and this can change over time as you progress through treatment and recovery.

Allow yourself time to process what’s happening, both physically and emotionally. When you feel ready, talking to someone can be incredibly helpful. This might be a trusted friend, partner, or family member. If you're unsure where to start, asking someone close to help you explore support options can be a great first step.

In Australia, the Cancer Council is an excellent resource. They offer a free, confidential telephone service for all people affected by cancer, including people living with cancer and their loved ones. Speaking with someone who understands can make a real difference.

Looking after your physical health can also help support your emotional wellbeing. This includes:

prioritising sleep and rest,
eating nourishing meals,
drinking plenty of water,
engaging in gentle physical activity,
avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol.

You may find you have lower energy than usual, but light and gentle exercise – like walking, stretching or yoga - can help you manage fatigue, improve physical function, and boost your mood. This may feel like a big lifestyle change. If you live with others, having the whole household embrace these new habits can be a great way to keep you on track, motivated and supported.

After a skin cancer diagnosis, protecting your skin from the sun’s UV rays becomes even more important. Follow sun smart behaviours when the UV index is 3 or above (get the SunSmart global UV app to monitor daily UV):

SLIP on UPF 50+ sun protective clothing.
SLOP on some SPF 50+ sunscreen to any areas not covered by UPF 50+ sun protection.
SLAP on a UPF 50+ wide brimmed hat.
SEEK shade or coverage under a UPF 50+ umbrella.
SLIDE on sunglasses that comply with Australian standards.

Encouraging those around you to also follow these steps can help boost your confidence as you empower others to be sun smart when outdoors.

Complementary therapies can offer a gentle and enjoyable way to build resilience. Options like mindfulness, art, dance or music therapy, or participating in a Look Good Feel Better program can help you reconnect with yourself and others. Exploring these with a loved one can deepen your connection and provide a refreshing sense of discovery and joy. If you're considering any complementary approaches, be sure to check in with your doctor to ensure they're safe and suitable for your individual needs.

Remember, everyone’s experience with skin cancer is different. Leaning on others, whether for support, encouragement, or simply to listen, can make all the difference. This World Mental Health Day, take a moment to care for your mind as well as your skin. You’re not alone, and every step forward is a step toward healing.