Men & Cancer: Talk it Out vs “Tough it Out”

Men & Cancer: Talk it Out vs “Tough it Out”

From This is Cancer by Siteman Cancer Center

June 25, 2025 · 56 min · Episode 30

About this episode

This episode discusses the impact of cultural norms on men's mental health in the context of cancer, featuring personal stories and expert insights.

Humor, silence, avoidance and isolation — each is a common response to a cancer diagnosis. But these traits, particularly common in men, can harm their mental health as they fight the disease. This episode thoughtfully explores the experiences of co-host Patrick, two-time cancer survivor Mellve and other men who have shared their stories on our podcast. Wash U Medicine clinical psychologist David Morris, PhD, highlights starting points to identify emotions and self-regulate, as well as other beneficial mental health practices. Together we confront the cultural norms that urge men to bottle things up and discuss how opening up becomes a strength. “This is Cancer” is brought to you by Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Wash U Medicine, and produced at Spot Content Studio in St. Louis, MO. For more information on topics discussed in this episode, go to: https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/siteman-psychology-service/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/patients/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/treatment/cancer-types/prostate/ https://siteman.wustl.edu/prevention/ydr/

People in this episode

Host: Patrick

Guest: Mellve

Topics covered

  • mental health
  • cancer diagnosis
  • male emotional expression
  • cultural norms
  • self-regulation

Keywords

  • self-regulation
  • cultural norms
  • survivor stories
  • cancer
  • mental health
  • men
  • emotions

Sponsors

Siteman Cancer Center

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Wash U Medicine

Places: St. Louis, MO

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