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Cancer Survivor Fights for Mental Health Support
18 Jun
Summary
- Millions of cancer survivors face unaddressed mental health challenges.
- Survivors experience anxiety and depression years after treatment.
- Access to specialized mental health care remains a significant hurdle.
Morgan Newman, diagnosed with cervical cancer at 24 in 2015, found her life plans disrupted. After initial treatment, she faced a cancer recurrence, leading to further chemotherapy and significant psychological distress. She felt isolated as friends reached adult milestones while she struggled with her health and mounting medical bills, making therapy inaccessible.
By 2017, Newman, now cancer-free, returned to therapy to manage lingering anxiety and the emotional toll of treatment side effects, such as infertility. Studies reveal that a third of cancer survivors experience anxiety about recurrence and a diminished sense of self, yet only one in five seeks professional mental health support.
Finding specialized care is challenging, especially in Iowa, which has a high rate of new cancer diagnoses. Newman eventually found a therapist in Des Moines experienced in supporting cancer survivors, acknowledging the silent grief and physical changes survivors often endure.
Oncologists like Dr. Patricia Ganz note that while medical treatment is advanced, mental health support is often overlooked. Institutions like MercyOne Richard Deming Cancer Center are beginning to offer services like counseling and mindfulness, aiming for more holistic patient care that addresses issues beyond physical symptoms.
