Integrative literature review on psychological distress and coping strategies among survivors of adolescent cancer

Hyewon Shin, Robin Bartlett, Jennie C. De Gagne

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION: Cancer survivors, particularly those diagnosed in adolescence, are faced with physical, mental, and emotional stressors associated with the disease and its treatment. These stressors add to the demand placed on survivors' already taxed coping skills. This article reviews the literature on psychological distress experienced by survivors diagnosed with cancer during adolescence and the coping strategies they employed. LITERATURE SEARCH: Three electronic databases (CINAHL®, PsycINFO®, PubMed®) were searched, and 19 studies were selected. Garrard's matrix method guided this integrative review. DATA EVALUATION: Gough's weight of evidence framework was used to evaluate each study. SYNTHESIS: Analysis revealed important findings about the types of coping strategies used by adolescents during and after cancer treatment and the impact of each on levels of psychological distress. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Healthcare providers, who regularly assess for negative thoughts and unmet needs among survivors, may identify symptoms of psychological distress, intervene early, and facilitate better outcomes for their patients. Patient-centered interventions aimed at coping with psychological distress are most helpful.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)E131-E148
JournalOncology Nursing Forum
Volume47
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2020

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2020 Oncology Nursing Society. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Adolescents with cancer
  • Coping strategies
  • Early intervention
  • Psychological distress

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Integrative literature review on psychological distress and coping strategies among survivors of adolescent cancer'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this