More Americans survive cancer. But the psychological impacts can persist for years

In 2015, Morgan Newman, then 24, received a shocking cancer diagnosis. She was working as a dental assistant and studying to become a social worker when an abnormal Pap smear led to further tests. Despite initial calm, believing it to be a common issue among her friends, a follow-up exam revealed significant bleeding, prompting her doctor to refer her to a gynecologic oncologist. Soon after, Morgan learned she had cervical cancer, a turn of events that significantly disrupted her life plans.

Morgan underwent several intensive treatments, including six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy. Although her initial scans cleared, suspicious nodules were later found in her lungs, requiring additional chemotherapy. This period was not only physically exhausting but also took a considerable psychological toll. She observed her friends achieving major life milestones, like marriage and starting families, which made her feel 'stuck.' Adding to her struggles, the medical bills forced her to stop the mental health therapy she had previously used for anxiety and depression.

Now, almost a decade later, Morgan remains cancer-free. However, the psychological impacts, such as the lingering anxiety about cancer returning and the emotional difficulty of her infertility caused by treatment, persist. She resumed therapy in 2017 after securing a job with better health benefits. Morgan has become a strong advocate for cancer prevention and support, actively working with cancer organizations. Studies indicate that many cancer survivors, like Morgan, face prolonged mental health challenges years after treatment ends, with only a fraction seeking professional help, partly due to the scarcity of therapists specialized in cancer-related issues.