Adolescence and young adulthood are times of significant growth and change, which can be further complicated for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer. Despite these challenges, AYAs show a strong capacity for psychosocial adaptation and resilience. Observational studies suggest that individual, social, and existential resources can promote resilience. Multicomponent programs with strategies like stress management, mindfulness, gratitude, and positive reappraisal coping show potential.
Although AYA cancer survivors report a poorer quality of life compared to their healthy peers, they also experience positive life changes in relationships, spirituality, future goals, and health management. Studies highlight hope, optimism, gratitude, and positive reappraisal coping among AYA cancer survivors. These mixed experiences underscore the potential of resilience-building interventions to mitigate the negative effects of cancer. Initial interventions like Promoting Resilience in Stress Management (PRISM) and Enhancing Management of Psychological Outcomes With Emotion Regulation (EMPOWER) have shown promise in improving resilience and patient-reported outcomes.
Reference: Salsman JM, Rosenberg AR. Fostering resilience in adolescence and young adulthood: Considerations for evidence-based, patient-centered oncology care. Cancer. 2024;130(7):1031-1040. doi: 10.1002/cncr.35182.
