Empowered Breast Cancer Survivor Advocates for Mental Health Awareness: Understanding the Emotional Impact of Cancer

Support for Mental Health in Cancer Care

When Diane Simard, a Denver author and breast cancer survivor, learned she had stage 3C breast cancer in 2015, she felt unprepared for the emotional challenges ahead. “My physical health directly affected how I felt mentally,” she shared. The rhythm of chemotherapy left her fatigued and overwhelmed.

Seeking help, Simard asked her oncologist for a therapist who specialized in cancer care. To her surprise, such services existed but were often not covered by insurance. Determined to change this, she reached out to the University of Denver. With some seed funding, the Center for Oncology Psychology Excellence (COPE) was born within a year of her diagnosis.

Today, COPE offers valuable courses. Over 200 students have participated, learning from experts, including psychologists from CU School of Medicine. This program aims to fill the gap in mental health resources for cancer patients, something Simard wished she had during her journey.

Reflecting on the progress made since her diagnosis, Simard encourages those facing cancer to prioritize their mental health. She notes, “Having cancer is a unique trauma. You confront your mortality and the fear of recurrence.”

It’s not just patients who need support; caregivers do too. They often face their own mental health struggles as they deal with their loved ones’ illness. The emotional toll is significant, and support can make a difference.

According to the National Cancer Institute, about 39.5% of people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. With statistics like these, the need for mental health resources alongside medical treatment becomes even clearer.

While more resources are available now than a decade ago, mental health support remains critical in the fight against cancer. Understanding and addressing these needs can lead to a better quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

For more on mental health in cancer care, check out the resources at National Cancer Institute.

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