After over 30 years on death row, a date has been set for her execution…

At various points, executions were scheduled—only to be halted by last-minute stays. Each time, the emotional toll intensified for everyone involved.

For the victim’s family, every delay reopened grief. For the condemned woman, each reprieve extended life—but also prolonged the psychological burden of waiting to die.

Mental Health and Aging on Death Row

One of the most contentious aspects of long-term death row incarceration is its impact on mental health.

Psychologists have documented a phenomenon often referred to as “death row syndrome”, marked by:

Severe anxiety

Depression

Cognitive decline

Emotional withdrawal

After decades in isolation, many inmates no longer resemble the people who committed their crimes. Supporters argue that executing someone after such prolonged confinement amounts to cruel and unusual punishment.

Opponents counter that the severity of the original crime must remain the central focus.