Many people diagnosed with a form of cancer also experience post-traumatic stress disorder, and for some, this persists and sometimes worsens with time, even after successful cancer treatment.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that develops in the aftermath of a particularly distressing event. The condition can be debilitating for many; it can lead to avoidance of places and contexts reminiscent of the trauma and may result in social isolation and negative coping strategies, such as substance abuse.