by Alma Dominguez, MSW Intern
A recent study from JAMA Oncology has uncovered something deeply troubling that often gets overlooked: the mental health struggles of spouses who care for cancer patients. The research, based on extensive data from Danish national patient databases, shows that these caregivers face much higher risks of suicide attempts and deaths compared to people whose partners don’t have cancer. Specifically, spouses of cancer patients have a 1.28 times higher risk of attempting suicide and a 1.47 times higher risk of dying by suicide. These numbers are alarming and highlight a major gap in how we support the loved ones of cancer patients as well.
Why Are Spouses at Risk?
The emotional and psychological toll on spouses of cancer patients is prone to needing support. Here’s why:
- Emotional Overload: Watching a loved one battle a life-threatening illness is heart-wrenching. The fear of losing them, combined with the stress of caregiving, can be overwhelming and lead to serious emotional distress.
- Financial Strain: The financial impact of cancer treatment can be considerable. Spouses may struggle to face the stress of managing medical bills, dealing with insurance, sometimes losing income if they need to cut back on work to care for their partner, and/or becoming the sole provider of their families during a time of increased financial burden.
- Isolation and Exhaustion: Caregiving can be exhausting and isolating. Spouses often find themselves cut off from their social circles and physically worn out. They might feel they don’t deserve help or don’t need it as much as their spouse who is sick, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Getting the Support You Need
Even though the risks are clear, the emotional struggles of spouses often go unnoticed. It’s crucial to get the support you need.
- Connect with our VBCF resource coordinator to receive a caregiver resources support kit. Each kit provides more information on coping with the stress of caregiving, support groups, workplace, financial, legal, and insurance assistance, home safety, emergency preparation, and book recommendations for caregivers. The goal is to help spouses feel less isolated and provide a valuable space for sharing experiences and advice.
Cancer doesn’t just affect the patient; it impacts them and everyone around them, especially their caregivers. Integrating additional support into cancer care plans is essential for providing holistic care that encompasses not just the patient but their entire support network. If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Mental health professionals, support groups, and community resources are out there to provide support. Remember, it’s okay to struggle, and it’s important to seek help. Most importantly, it is no one’s fault. Let’s make sure no one has to go through this alone.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. For TTY users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
