The protective role of self-esteem for functional well-being in the context of cancer-related distress among young adults with cancer

Functional well-being is an important component of a fulfilled life (e.g., the ability to work and enjoy life). Among young adults (YAs) with cancer, functional well-being may be diminished due to resulting distress from the cancer experience. The moderating role of psychological factors (e.g., self-esteem) in this relationship is poorly understood. To understand the role of self-esteem in the relationship between cancer-related distress and functional well-being among YAs with cancer. 57 YAs with cancer (aged 18–45) diagnosed completed measures self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), cancer-related distress (Impact of Events Scale-Revised), and functional well-being (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy- General). Significant main effects were observed for cancer-related distress (β = – 0.26, p < 0.01) and self-esteem (β = 0.46, p < 0.001) on functional well-being. This was qualified by a significant cancer-related distress x self-esteem interaction (β = 0.214, p < 0.05). Simple slopes analysis revealed that cancer-related distress and functional well-being was moderated by self-esteem (β = – 0.48, p < 0.001), such that high levels of cancer-related distress were associated with low levels of functional well-being among YAs with cancer who reported relatively low levels of self-esteem. This relationship was not significant at high levels of self-esteem. Our results underscore the role of self-esteem as a potential psychological resource for YA cancer patients with high levels of cancer-related distress. Targeted interventions aimed at promoting self-esteem may be particularly important for protecting against cancer-related distress and promoting functional well-being in this vulnerable population.