Cancer-related mental health support in London

What’s different about mental health support for cancer patients?

While many people associate cancer with physical illness, its psychological effects can be just as profound. According to Maggie’s, three in five people with cancer feel that the mental health challenges are harder to deal with than the physical treatment.

Psychiatric oncology (also known as psycho-oncology) is a specialist field that integrates psychiatry, psychology and psychotherapy with cancer care. It addresses issues like:

• Emotional distress after diagnosis

• The mental toll of treatment

• Trauma responses

• Family strain and communication

• Existential fears or end-of-life concerns

• Support for caregivers and loved ones

Our clinicians understand the unique emotional needs of cancer patients - including how they may differ by diagnosis, treatment type, and personal history. Our role is to help you process what’s happening, find strength, and improve your quality of life through meaningful support.

Common mental health challenges during cancer

Not everyone responds the same way to cancer - but certain emotional and cognitive effects are common, especially without the right support. You may experience:

• Anxiety – Constant worry, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or physical symptoms like a racing heart

• Depression – Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in life, often accompanied by fatigue or poor concentration

• Fear of recurrence – Anxiety even after successful treatment, which can linger for years

• Grief and loss – Mourning the loss of health, control, independence, or future plans

• Body image issues – Struggles with physical changes such as hair loss, scars, or weight gain/loss

• Chemo brain – Cognitive side effects of chemotherapy, such as forgetfulness and difficulty multitasking

• PTSD-like symptoms – Flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or hypervigilance after traumatic treatment experiences

• Relationship challenges – Strain with partners, family, or friends due to emotional withdrawal or communication breakdown

• Isolation – Feeling disconnected from others, even those close to you.

These symptoms can occur at any point in the cancer journey—and often shift over time. Getting the right help early can ease distress, reduce long-term impact, and support better outcomes.