WHEN it comes to health, men are notorious for keeping things close to their chests.

Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer accounting for 24 per cent of all new cancer diagnosis and November is the month when the disease is profiled through the Movember fundraising campaign when participants grow a moustache to spread the support and raise awareness.

To coincide with this, Sue Makin, psychosexual therapist along with her colleagues at Bradford Relate, are raising awareness of an issue many may not even consider but which can affect sufferers.

Working in partnership with Prostate Cancer UK, Sue and her colleagues are offering a full range of support to men who are often worried about their sexual performance and how to remain intimate with their partners following diagnosis.

Many men find it difficult to share their thoughts and concerns even with family or friends. Other issues they may struggle with include finding a way to start conversations about the diagnosis and what it may mean; how to talk to a partner who doesn’t want to hear; how to encourage openness and honesty between partners in being able to talk about what is happening without fear or making things worse or upsetting each other; coping with feelings of guilt and not wanting people to think they are not coping.

“Research has shown men would rather complete a questionnaire about sexual issues rather than talk about it,” says Sue.

She says despite the support they receive through the urology departments, hardly any men will go on to seek psychosexual therapy but she believes many could benefit, particularly in terms of tackling depression which can often arise.

“We want to make it as easy as possible to come to us. This can be really life changing in a very positive way,” says Sue.

She says it is essential men seek this service to help them connect with their partner again.

Sue says she and her team provide a safe and comfortable environment for men to share their worries and concerns.

They also have fully trained therapists on hand to support clients and help them resolve their sexual concerns or problems they may have following diagnosis.

“We completely understand that seeking help can in itself cause anxiety, but we are committed to supporting clients sensitively,” says Sue.

A variety of sessions are available, depending on the preference of the client, namely individual one to one sessions, couple sessions and group sessions.

Statistics would support the common perception that men are less likely than women to seek group sessions, but feedback from men who have attended group sessions in other areas is very positive. Prostate cancer affects men of any sexual orientation - gay men are as affected by prostate cancer as heterosexual men. Being able to share experiences and give and receive emotional support can lead to long lasting friendships. Learning from others or mentoring others dealing with prostate cancer can be very be rewarding for all concerned.

Aside from the sexual information and advice, Sue explains Relate can also provide support for the whole family too.

She explains there may be family members who are struggling to cope with the fact that their loved one has been diagnosed with a serious illness and are fearful of the situation.

They may not be feel they are able to share their concerns with family members but may find it a comfort to talk to someone from Relate.

Arranging an appointment is easy. GPs, consultant urologists and specialist nurses in Bradford can make a referral, or individuals can refer themselves by contacting Relate Bradford on (01274) 726096.