Anxiety self-management strategies in cancer survivors: a systematic literature review.

Background: Anxiety is a condition that can hinder cancer survivors’ capacity to adapt to the new life condition, and influence self-management and the health-illness process. Objectives: To identify the anxiety management strategies used by cancer survivors to promote disease management after the end of treatments. Review method: A systematic literature review was conducted based on the Joanna Briggs Institute model. Twelve of the 1,483 articles found in the databases were included. Interpretation of results: Strategies involving physical exercise, disease perception, coping and social support, and the control of negative interactions may have positive effects in reducing anxiety levels and promoting an adequate disease management. Conclusion: Physical activity, non-fatalistic coping strategies, coping strategies focused on positive aspects (optimism), social support (formal or informal), and strategies for reducing negative interactions may have beneficial effects in reducing anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]