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

Morgan Newman was 24 and working as a dental assistant in Des Moines, Iowa, when an abnormal Pap smear result led to a cervical cancer diagnosis in 2015. After six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, her cancer initially went into remission, but follow-up scans revealed suspicious lung nodules, requiring additional treatment. Newman struggled with psychological distress as her friends progressed in life while she felt stuck, unable to afford therapy due to medical bills and a packed schedule." "Her treatment ended in 2017, and she later secured a job with better health benefits, allowing her to resume therapy. However, she continues to grapple with anxiety over cancer recurrence and infertility caused by radiation damage. Now working as the Iowa grassroots manager for the American Cancer Society’s lobbying arm, Newman advocates for cancer prevention while managing her own long-term mental health needs." "A national survey by Cancer Nation found that about one-third of cancer survivors report persistent anxiety about recurrence and feeling disconnected from their pre-cancer identity. Only 20% of surveyed survivors had seen a mental health professional, highlighting a gap in post-treatment support. Studies show cancer survivors are at higher risk for long-term anxiety and depression, often left unaddressed despite physical recovery." "The National Cancer Institute projects over 22 million cancer survivors in the U.S. by 2035, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care beyond medical treatment. Newman’s experience reflects broader challenges faced by survivors, including financial barriers to mental health services and emotional struggles tied to fertility and social milestones.