Coping with cancer: A qualitative study of adolescent and young adult perspectives

Objectives: Cancer can have long-term biopsychological impacts for young people that persist for years. To promote adjustment, it is essential to understand how young people cope, yet this is relatively understudied.

Methods: This study explored the coping strategies using semi-structured interviews with 16 young people with cancer aged 15-24 years. Eligible participants were diagnosed within the previous 24 months and recruited through Australian Youth Cancer Services. Transcribed interviews were analysed using content analysis.

Results: Coping strategies included: seeking support; controlling the focus; avoiding negatives and staying positive; meaning making and; changes with time. During treatment, seeking support, focussing on the present, distraction and avoidance were commonly applied. Following treatment, planning for the future, avoidance of re-traumatising situations and meaning making were used.

Conclusion: Findings support the concept of coping as a dynamic process where different strategies are used depending on the stressor, available resources and previous experiences.

Practice implications: Comprehensive, developmentally appropriate psychosocial assessments, open communication, education and information provision, as well as appropriate referral for support are essential, particularly for young cancer survivors identified at risk.