Why psychosocial support matters for employees - and the businesses they work in - when facing a cancer diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis is life changing. It impacts far more than just a person's physical health; it's a knock to their emotional wellbeing, family dynamics and work life. In the workplace, a diagnosis has ripple effects on productivity, team morale and mental wellbeing.
"A cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by anxiety, trauma and stress. During and after treatment, survivors face challenges that directly affect their mental health. The kind of professional and social support an organisation offers can influence not only retention but also the productivity and wellbeing of both the individual and their colleagues," says Guy Chennells, Chief Commercial Officer at Discovery Corporate and Employee Benefits.
In South Africa, one in eight employees between the ages of 18 and 65 are at risk of cancer. According to Discovery Health data, between 2012 and 2024, cancer-related diagnoses increased by over 40%.
What's more, cancer patients aren't just paying physically. Discovery Group Risk data shows almost one in every two claimants end up suffering from a mental health condition.
The psychological toll of cancer in the workplace
A study published in the European Journal of Oncology Nursing reveals the wide range of psychological challenges cancer survivors face at work. These include:
- Depression, anxiety and emotional distress
- Loss of self-esteem
- Social anxiety, often linked to physical appearance changes
- Isolation, especially when co-workers don't understand the survivor's fears
- Fear of recurrence or job insecurity
- Financial stress related to treatment, counselling and recovery
How Discovery Healthy Company supports cancer patients and their employers
As part of its Group Risk product, Discovery Corporate and Employee Benefits provides a comprehensive cancer benefit that combines medical cover with personalised support and mental wellness through its Healthy Company employee assistance programme (EAP).
"We work with patients through key moments in their journey via a registered psychologist or Healthy Company coach. We understand that emotional support and clear information are essential," says Yasheen Modi, Head of Marketing at Discovery Corporate and Employee Benefits.
Healthy Company offers holistic support across three levels: members, their families, and employers. These services are designed to support the survivor and foster awareness and empathy across the organisation.
Mental health support for employees includes:
- Emotional counselling
- Personal resilience planning
- Care packs at key points
- Educational resources
- Links to support groups
- Communication guidance
"But it's not just the individual who needs support. Cancer affects the whole family," says Modi. "That's why we offer emotional counselling for loved ones, guidance on how to support someone through treatment, and access to family support groups. Supporting the wider circle around the employee helps create a stronger foundation for recovery."
"But the support doesn't stop there. Returning to work after cancer treatment is a major adjustment. Our reintegration services help employees and employers manage expectations and foster a smooth transition. This includes opening a structured dialogue to ensure everyone is supported," he adds.
For employers, this support is practical and people-focused. It includes:
- Return-to-work planning and reintegration support
- Emotional counselling for teams
- Ongoing visibility (with consent) into the recovery journey
- Guidance on workforce planning and inclusive support
- Insights to help normalise and destigmatise mental health conversations
Why cancer support matters for your business
Cancer may be personal, but its impact is organisational. Employees facing a diagnosis need more than just medical care; they need emotional resilience, community support, and clarity on what comes next.
An effective employee assistance programme, like Healthy Company, helps employers navigate this journey at every stage, protecting mental wellbeing, encouraging reintegration, and ultimately improving long-term productivity and engagement.
In a working world where cancer is increasingly common, the businesses that provide structured psychosocial support will not only retain talent but also lead with humanity.