Managing Mood Changes During Advanced Prostate Cancer Treatment

Learn to recognize, understand, and effectively manage mood changes during advanced prostate cancer treatment for improved quality of life.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 25, 2025

Learn to recognize, understand, and effectively manage mood changes during advanced prostate cancer treatment for improved quality of life.

Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. For those with advanced disease, treatment often involves potent therapies like androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or newer targeted therapies. While these treatments are essential to control cancer growth, they can also profoundly impact a patient’s emotional and mental well-being.

Why Do Mood Changes Occur During Advanced Prostate Cancer Treatment?

Mood changes are frequent among men undergoing treatment for advanced prostate cancer. These changes can manifest as depression, anxiety, irritability, or mood swings. The primary driver is often androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a treatment that drastically lowers the levels of male hormones (androgens) required by prostate cancer cells to grow.

Reductions in testosterone can cause not just physical symptoms—such as fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and reduced sexual drive—but also psychological symptoms that may include:

Increased sadness and tearfulness
Heightened anxiety or worry
General irritability or anger
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of isolation

It is important to note that while many emotional side effects may improve after treatment is stopped, some can linger, particularly for older patients or those on long-term ADT.

Types of Mood and Mental Health Changes to Expect

Every man’s experience is unique, but some changes are more commonly reported by those living with—and receiving treatment for—advanced prostate cancer:

Depression

Depression is a common consequence of advanced prostate cancer treatment. Men might feel persistent sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Beyond the hormonal shifts, factors like fatigue, sexual dysfunction, or concerns about mortality can intensify these feelings.

Trouble sleeping or oversleeping
Loss of appetite or overeating
Low energy and motivation
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

Anxiety and Stress

Uncertainty about prognosis, fear of disease progression, and side effects from treatment can drive anxiety and stress. In some studies, men with advanced prostate cancer report anxiety rates comparable to those of people with other recurrent or life-threatening diseases.

Frequent worrying or racing thoughts
Physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or rapid heartbeat
Difficulty relaxing

Fatigue and Irritability

ADT and other treatments can cause chronic fatigue, which not only reduces quality of life but can also contribute to increased irritability and moodiness. Many men experience low vigor and energy, making it harder to engage with family, friends, or daily activities.

Mood Swings

Some men describe experiencing rapid emotional changes—being easily moved to tears or anger without obvious cause. These mood swings are linked to abrupt hormonal changes due to cancer treatment, especially hormone therapies that lower testosterone levels.

Cognitive Changes

Cognitive symptoms such as forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, or a mental “fog” can occur during long-term therapy. Research shows that ADT may affect spatial reasoning, memory, and cognitive sharpness. The severity and duration of these symptoms vary, and some improvements are possible after stopping treatment.

How Long Do Mood Changes Last?

The duration of mood changes varies from person to person. For many, mood and energy levels begin to recover after completing hormone therapy. However, some emotional symptoms—especially depression and anxiety—may linger, particularly in those on prolonged or indefinite androgen deprivation treatment.

Mood Change	When It Starts	How Long It Lasts
Depression / Sadness	During or after treatment begins	May improve after treatment or persist with ongoing therapy
Anxiety / Worry	Often at diagnosis or during treatment course	Variable—may improve with support, sometimes persistent
Irritability / Anger	After starting hormone therapy	Improves when therapy stopped, but may linger
Cognitive Impairment	Months into therapy	Frequently better on stopping treatment, but not always

Who Is Most at Risk of Mood Changes?

Men on long-term or high-dose ADT
Older adults, especially those with other illnesses
Individuals with a prior history of depression or anxiety
Those with limited social support
Patients dealing with additional life stressors (financial, spiritual, family)

Studies show social support is a protective factor: men with robust support networks tend to report more positive moods and better emotional adjustment, even when facing high levels of stress.

Physical Symptoms That Can Impact Mood

Physical side effects of advanced prostate cancer treatment can also contribute to or worsen emotional symptoms:

Fatigue: Profound tiredness is common with ADT and chemotherapy.
Reduced sexual desire or dysfunction: Loss of libido can be distressing and challenge intimacy or self-esteem.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep increases risk for depression and irritability.
Pain: Especially in metastatic cancer, chronic pain can further reduce quality of life and mood.

Coping Strategies and Treatments for Managing Mood Changes

You do not have to endure mood changes alone. There are practical strategies and treatments to help manage these symptoms and improve quality of life:

Work with Your Care Team

Open communication: Always let your doctor or nurse know about your mood changes, insomnia, or distress.
Medication review: Sometimes antidepressant medication, anti-anxiety medications, or sleep aids may be appropriate. Only take as prescribed by your doctor.
Counseling and therapy: Talking to a mental health professional, particularly one experienced in cancer care, can help manage depression, anxiety, or grief.

Self-Help Strategies

Maintain a routine—consistent meals, exercise, and sleep can stabilize mood.
Engage in safe, regular physical activity—even light exercise can boost mood and energy.
Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques—such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga, to calm the mind.
Keep a journal—documenting thoughts and feelings helps identify patterns and triggers.

Strengthen Your Social Support Network

Participate in support groups for men with prostate cancer—these can provide connection, reduce isolation, and share coping tips.
Reach out to friends, family, or faith communities.
Consider online forums or virtual support if in-person groups are not available.

When to Seek Professional Help for Mood Changes

It is crucial to contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or tearfulness for more than two weeks
Loss of interest in daily activities and hobbies
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Inability to function in daily life (missing work, not getting out of bed)
Severe irritability, anger, or mood swings impacting relationships

Early intervention improves outcomes and helps manage symptoms effectively. Antidepressants, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and supportive counseling have all shown benefit for men undergoing cancer treatment.

Caregiver Support: Helping a Loved One Cope

Family members, friends, and caregivers play a vital role in a patient’s emotional adjustment. Here’s how you can help:

Listen without judgment—let your loved one express frustration or sadness
Encourage participation in enjoyable activities
Offer practical help—rides to appointments, meal prep, or household chores
Remain alert for signs of depression or anxiety, and communicate concerns to the healthcare team

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes mood changes during prostate cancer treatment?

Mood changes are mainly caused by decreases in testosterone due to androgen deprivation therapy or hormone therapy. The stress of a cancer diagnosis and physical side effects also contribute.

Will mood changes go away after treatment?

For many men, symptoms like depression and irritability improve after discontinuing hormone therapy. However, some mood changes can be long-lasting, especially with ongoing or long-term treatment.

Can depression from cancer treatment be treated?

Yes. Depression is treatable with a combination of medication, counseling, lifestyle modifications, and support. Talking openly with your treatment team is key to getting help.

What are the signs that I should ask for help?

If you or your loved one experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm, loss of interest in activities, or difficulty with daily tasks, seek help from a healthcare provider or mental health specialist immediately.

Does everyone experience mood changes on ADT?

Not every man will experience severe mood symptoms, but many report at least some emotional changes. Severity varies based on individual risk factors and length of treatment.

Resources

Speak to your oncology care team for referrals to mental health support.
Explore local or online support groups through cancer organizations.
Many cancer centers have dedicated social workers or psychologists.

Remember: Mood changes during prostate cancer treatment are not a sign of weakness. They are a common, biologically driven part of therapy. With support, symptom management, and open communication, it is possible to maintain quality of life and emotional balance throughout treatment and recovery.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete