When Identity Shifts: Navigating Life After a Melanoma Diagnosis

Last week, Melanoma Patients Australia (MPA) was represented at the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Symposium by our Melanoma Nurse Counsellor, Clare McInerney-Harris. This year’s symposium focused on a powerful and deeply human topic: identity. 

Bringing together people with lived experience alongside counselling professionals, the event created a meaningful space to explore how identity can shift following a diagnosis or major life change—and how people can be supported through that process. 

More Than a Diagnosis

For people affected by melanoma, a diagnosis can impact far more than physical health. It can influence how you see yourself, your role within your family, your relationships, your work, and your sense of purpose. 

You may find yourself asking: 

• Who am I now? 
• What does this mean for my future? 

• How do I move forward when things feel so different?

These questions are a natural part of adjusting to change. Identity is not fixed—it evolves over time, shaped by our experiences, challenges, and the support we receive along the way. 

The Impact of Life Changes on Identity

A melanoma diagnosis, like many major life events, can disrupt a person’s sense of stability. Roles that once felt certain may shift. Priorities can change. Relationships may deepen or be redefined. 

At times, this can feel overwhelming. It’s common to experience a mix of emotions—grief, uncertainty, fear, and even a sense of loss for the person you were before diagnosis. 

But within this change, there is also the possibility for growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. 

Identity as Something Dynamic

One of the key messages from the ACA Symposium was that identity is dynamic—it can be reshaped, supported, and strengthened over time. 

With the right support, people can: 

• Build new ways of understanding themselves 

• Reconnect with what matters most 

• Develop resilience in the face of uncertainty 

• Find meaning in their experiences 

This doesn’t mean the journey is easy. But it does mean you don’t have to go through it alone. 

How Support Makes a Difference

At Melanoma Patients Australia, this understanding underpins the way we care for our community. We recognise that supporting someone through melanoma means supporting the whole person—not just their diagnosis. 

Through our counselling services and peer support programs, we walk alongside you as you navigate these changes. 

Our support is: 

• Compassionate and person-centred, tailored to your individual experience 

• Grounded in understanding, recognising that identity can shift over time 

• Focused on connection, helping you feel heard, supported, and less alone 

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or navigating life beyond it, support can help you make sense of these changes and move forward in a way that feels right for you. 

You Don’t Have to Navigate Melanoma Alone

Experiences like the ACA Symposium reinforce the importance of listening to lived experience and continuing to improve the way we support our community. 

We are grateful to our Melanoma Nurse Counsellor for bringing these insights back to MPA, helping ensure that our care continues to reflect what people truly need – understanding, connection, and support at every stage of their melanoma experience.

If you would like to explore counselling support or speak to a Melanoma Specialist Nurse, we’re here to help. Contact the Melanoma Support Line on 1300 884 450 to learn more or enquire about an appointment. 

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If you or a loved one is affected by Melanoma and needs support, we’re here for you, because no one affected by melanoma walks alone. Contact us here.

• Call the National Melanoma Support Line 1800 884 450
• Book a referral for a Melanoma Nurse Telehealth appointment
• Speak with our Melanoma Nurse Counsellor
• Join a Melanoma Patients Australia Support Group