Cancer causes excess mortality in those with mental illness in the United States[i][ii], and while incidence rates have been found to be comparable between people with and without a history of mental illness, cancer-related mortality is higher[iii] in people with mental illness. In addition to the physical impacts of cancer, fear of disease recurrence, alteration of one’s identity, and perceived loss of support from friends, family, and one’s providers can exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues and increase long-term risks associated with more severe psychological disorders[iv]. Supporting individuals with mental illness around their cancer diagnosis is an essential component of holistic care that can affect an individual’s long-term prognosis[v] and outcomes.
News & Blogs
- How a Breast Cancer Diagnosis Affects Your Mental Health & Where to Seek Support
- Helping Cancer Survivors Cope with Cancer-Related Anxiety and Distress
- Learn from Survivors who have faced Breast Cancer and a Mental Health Challenge
- Taking Care of Your Mental Health When Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
- Why Mental Health Screenings Should Be A Regular Part of Cancer Care
Research Articles
- Assessment of Depression and Anxiety in Breast Cancer Patients: Prevalence and Associated Factors
- Preexisting Mental Illnesses and Mortality Among Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
- Associations Between Breast Cancer Survivorship and Adverse Mental Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review
- Impacts of Self-care Education on Adverse Events and Mental Health Related Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients Under Chemotherapy
- Yoga for Improving Health-related Quality of Life, Mental Health and Cancer-related Symptoms in Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer