Several factors contribute to the development of survivor's guilt among cancer survivors:
1. Comparison with Others: Survivors often compare their outcomes with those of others who had similar diagnoses but did not survive. This can lead to feelings of guilt over their own survival.
2. Loss of Fellow Patients: Witnessing the death of fellow patients during treatment can be a powerful trigger for survivor's guilt. The emotional bonds formed during shared experiences in treatment can make these losses particularly impactful.
3. Treatment Success: The variability in treatment success can also contribute. Some patients may feel guilty for responding well to treatments that others did not benefit from.