Mental Health Crisis Among Cancer Survivors
Cancer survivors face significant mental health challenges long after treatment. Discover how Iowa is addressing this critical issue in cancer care.
The Overlooked Mental Health Needs
As cancer survival rates rise, the psychological impacts on survivors are becoming increasingly evident. Many individuals, like Morgan Newman, experience anxiety and depression that often go unaddressed, leading to a silent struggle that can last for years.
Newman, diagnosed with cervical cancer at just 24, faced not only the physical toll of her illness but also the emotional burden of feeling left behind as her peers moved forward in life. Despite completing her treatment, she found herself grappling with feelings of isolation and guilt, compounded by the financial strain of medical bills that made therapy inaccessible.
- Key statistics highlight the issue:
- Over 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S. as of 2025.
- Projected growth to 22 million by 2035.
- Many survivors report unaddressed mental health issues post-treatment.