Depression, anxiety, & loneliness among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic

PurposeTo assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on depression, anxiety, and loneliness between those with and without a history of cancer.DesignThis prospective observational study used a quantitative approach.ParticipantsAdult members of the Kaiser Permanente Research Bank (N = 104,640).MethodsParticipants completed a series of surveys from May to December 2020. The difference in score of depression, anxiety, and loneliness were estimated using linear mixed regression.FindingsAmong cancer survivors, 21% and 19% met the thresholds for increased risk of depression and anxiety. Among cancer survivors, younger age groups and females reported increased depression, anxiety, and loneliness scores.ConclusionsThis study highlights the continued necessity of addressing mental health needs and social support in cancer survivors during and after a public health emergency.Implications for psychosocial providersCancer survivors may need particular resources after cancer treatment to strengthen resilience and improve quality of life.