Cancer Support Groups Help One Deal With the Diagnosis

— -- People diagnosed with cancer and their families face many challenges that may leave them feeling overwhelmed, afraid and alone. It can be difficult to cope with these challenges or to talk to even the most supportive family members and friends.

Often, support groups can help people affected by cancer to feel less alone, and the groups can improve their ability to cope with the uncertainties and challenges that cancer brings. Support groups give people who are affected by similar diseases an opportunity to meet and discuss ways to cope with the illness.

Several kinds of support groups are available to meet the individual needs of people at all stages of cancer treatment, from diagnosis through follow-up care. Some groups are general cancer support groups, while more specialized groups may be for teens or young adults, for family members or for people affected by a particular disease. Support groups may be led by a professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or social worker, or by cancer patients or survivors. In addition, support groups can vary in approach, size and how often they meet. Many groups are free, but some require a fee (people can contact their health insurance company to find out whether their plan will cover the cost). It is important for people to find an atmosphere that is comfortable and meets their individual needs.

Many organizations offer support groups for people diagnosed with cancer and their family members or friends. The NCI fact sheet National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families lists many cancer-concerned organizations that can provide information about support groups. This fact sheet is available at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/support/organizations on the Internet, or can be ordered from the Cancer Information Service at 800--4--CANCER (1--800--422--6237).

Doctors, nurses or hospital social workers who work with cancer patients may also have information about support groups, such as their location, size, type and how often they meet. Most hospitals have social services departments that provide information about cancer support programs. Additionally, many newspapers carry a special health supplement containing information about where to find support groups.

People who have been diagnosed with cancer sometimes find they need assistance coping with the emotional as well as the practical aspects of their illness. In fact, attention to the emotional burden of cancer is sometimes part of a patient's treatment plan. Cancer support groups provide a confidential atmosphere in which cancer patients or cancer survivors can discuss the challenges that accompany the illness with others who may have experienced the same challenges. For example, people gather to discuss the emotional needs created by cancer, to exchange information about their disease -- including practical problems such as managing side effects or returning to work after treatment -- and to share their feelings. Support groups have helped thousands of people cope with these and similar situations.