Mid Sweden University

Background: Adolescents and young adults affected by cancer (AYACs) are at risk of experiencing late and long-term effects following cancer diagnosis and treatment. This life phase is marked by critical emotional, physical and social development, which may be disrupted by serious illness. While nature is increasingly recognized as supportive in mental health and recovery, its role in helping AYACs managing their late effects remains underexplored. Aim: To explore how AYACs, that participated in the WAYA-wilderness program, experienced that nature may support them in managing their late and long-term effects of cancer and cancer-related treatment in everyday life. Method: A photovoice study design and three focus group interviews were conducted with 18 participants who had completed the WAYA wilderness program in the summer of 2024. Discussions were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The manifest analysis resulted in five categories and eleven subcategories. Three categories described how nature supported presence, mental restoration and emotional expression. Two categories illustrated how nature provided symbolic experiences of stability, joy and a broader perspective on life and continuity. At a higher level of abstraction, two overarching themes were identified: (1) Nature as a source of emotional and existential comfort and (2) Nature as a non-demanding and safe space for recovery in everyday life. Conclusion: The findings highlight nature’s multifaceted role in supporting AYACs as they manage the complex consequences of cancer. Nature offered both concrete and symbolic resources that facilitated emotional regulation, reflection and meaning-making—pointing to its potential as a complementary element in long-term survivorship support