Abstract PS1-02-14: Bridging the psychosocial gap in young breast cancer survivors: a peer-led, trauma-informed framework for survivorship navigation

Abstract Purpose Young breast cancer survivors experience high rates of emotional distress, identity disruption, and trauma-related symptoms. One in three cancer survivors show signs of PTSD. Among breastcancer survivors, 50% report depression and 60% report anxiety post-treatment. Yet few survivorship care models address mental health in a trauma-informed or developmentally relevant way. In our 2025 survey of 46 young survivors, 93% reported distress when reminded of cancer-related events, 84% experienced intrusive thoughts, 73% had sleep disturbances, 69%reported flashbacks, and over 80% expressed discomfort with physical changes. These findings underscore the urgent need for structured, peer-informed mental health support. In response, we developed targeted mental health tools and the Phases of Cancer Survivorship (PoCS)Framework: a three-phase model (Grief, Repair, Celebration) that conceptualizes psychological healing as a progressive, survivor-centered process. Methods The PoCS Framework was developed through an iterative, survivor-informed process. From2022 to 2025, 90 young breast cancer survivors participated in semi-structured interviews and surveys following 12 immersive peer-led retreats. Thematic analysis of participant narratives was conducted by a licensed mental health counselor and a multidisciplinary team to identify common psychosocial challenges. Key themes included emotional overwhelm, fear of recurrence, identity disruption, body image distress, professional delays, loneliness, and a desire to feel “normal” again. The framework includes three nonlinear, cyclical phases reflecting the evolving emotional experience of young survivors. The Grief Phase survivors process fear, loss, and trauma through reflection and trauma-informed dialogue. The Repair Phase survivors build emotional regulation and self-compassion through psychoeducation and skill development. The Celebration Phase survivors reclaims joy and identity through rituals, empowerment, and community connection. Retreat programming integrated the framework through group therapy, psychosocial education, art therapy, and original workbook tools. Emotional impact and utility were assessed through post-retreat surveys and open-ended feedback. Results Retreat participants reported 92% increased understanding of their mental health, 90%reported improved body image, 92% felt less alone and more connected to community, and 88% felt more confident and empowered. Qualitative feedback described the framework as “validating,” “clarifying,” and “exactly what I needed but didn’t know how to ask for.” Participants highlighted symbolic and expressive activities as emotionally transformative. Emergent themes included reduced shame, increased hope, empowerment, and clearer emotional navigation. Feedback supported the framework’s resonance, relevance, and potential for broader use in trauma-informed survivorship care. Conclusion Findings highlight the urgent need for structured, developmentally relevant psychosocial support throughout survivorship. The PoCS Framework addresses critical, unmet mental health needs among young breast cancer survivors. This model offers an integrable, emotionally resonant structure that bridges gaps in care and provides a shared language for oncology and mental health providers and patients. Its alignment with survivors’ lived experiences positions it for broader use in clinical navigation programs, community-based services, and direct patient support. The PoCS Framework has the potential to become a universal language for the survivor experience, guiding emotional recovery, and enhancing quality of care across settings. Further study is warranted to validate its impact and guide implementation at scale. Citation Format: W. O'connor, L. Colbert, K. Armstrong. Bridging the psychosocial gap in young breast cancer survivors: a peer-led, trauma-informed framework for survivorship navigation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-02-14.