Mapping the needs and psychological outcomes of Slovenian adolescent and young adult cancer patients: An exploratory mixed-methods study

Abstract

Objectives: Baseline data from an ongoing online longitudinal survey were analysed. Three objectives guided our analyses: 1) to describe the self-reported levels of psychological distress among young Slovenian cancer patients and compare it to an international sample, 2) to describe the subjective illness experience of young Slovenian patients, and 3) to highlight areas for improvement in holistic care. Method: Seventy-nine participants, aged 19 - 39 years, answered questionnaires about anxiety, depression, mental defeat, cancer worry, and their experience of learning the diagnosis and being treated. We used visualizations to demonstrate the relationship between anxiety and depression. The qualitative responses were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Results: Twenty-eight (35%) participants scored in the clinical range for anxiety and fifteen (19%) for depression. Cancer-related worry was common (85% reported at least one worry). Mental defeat was positively associated with measures of psychological distress. Those who felt negative about learning their diagnosis emphasized the need for more time, empathy, and dignity. Psychological support during illness was seen as crucial. Conclusion: Anxiety and depression remain a problem for a subset of patients. Medical professionals working with young people with cancer should encourage a warm atmosphere as they attend to patients needs and concerns.