Cancer Support Groups

Support groups can:

• Help you feel better, more hopeful, and not so alone
• Give you a chance to talk about your feelings and work through them
• Help you deal with practical problems, such as problems at work or school
• Help you cope with side effects of treatment

>> 5 Powerful Benefits of Joining a Cancer Support Group

Types of Support Groups

Some groups focus on all kinds of cancer. Others talk about just one kind, such as a group for women with breast cancer or one for men with prostate cancer. Some can be open to everyone or just for people of a certain age, sex, culture, or religion. For instance, some groups are just for teens or young children.

Support groups can also be helpful for children or family members. These groups focus on family concerns such as role changes, relationship changes, financial worries, and how to support the person with cancer. Some groups include both cancer survivors and family members.

Online support groups are “meetings” that take place online. People meet through chat rooms, listservs, webinars, social media (such as Facebook), or moderated discussion groups. People often like online support groups because they can take part in them any time of the day or night. They’re also good for people who can’t travel to meetings, or live in rural areas. Some are sponsored by cancer organizations, while others aren’t monitored. Therefore, always check with your doctor about any cancer information you receive to make sure it’s correct.

Telephone support groups are when everyone dials in to a phone line that is linked together, like a conference call. They can share and talk to others with similar experiences from all over the country. There is usually little or no charge.

>> Finding a Cancer Support Buddy

Where to Find a Support Group

Many hospitals, cancer centers, community groups, and schools offer cancer support groups. Here are some ways to find groups near you:

• Do a Google search for support groups in your area. You can narrow it down by specifying types of cancers, location, etc.
• Call your local hospital and ask about its cancer support programs.
• Ask your social worker to suggest groups.
• Talk to other patients who have tried support groups.

>> Individual and Group Cancer Support Resources

Is a Support Group Right for Me?

Before joining a support group, you may want to ask yourself if you’re comfortable talking about personal issues. You can also think about what you hope to gain by joining one. A support group may not be right for everyone. Some people don’t like to hear about others’ problems. And some find that their need for a support group changes over time.

If you have a choice of support groups, visit a few and see what they are like. See which ones make sense for you. Although many groups are free, some charge a small fee. Find out if your health insurance pays for support groups.

If you’re thinking about joining a support group, here are some questions you may want to ask the group’s contact person:

• How large is the group?
• Who attends (survivors, family members, types of cancer, age range)?
• How long are the meetings?
• How often does the group meet?
• How long has the group been together?
• Who leads the meetings – a professional or a survivor?
• What is the format of the meetings?
• Is the main purpose to share feelings, or do people also offer tips to solve common problems?
• If I go, can I just sit and listen?

>> The Benefits of Group Therapy for Cancer Patients

Support groups vary greatly, and if you have one bad experience, it doesn’t mean these groups aren’t a good option for you. You may also want to find another cancer survivor with whom you can discuss your cancer experience. Many organizations can pair you with someone who had your type of cancer and is close to your age and background.

Remember, you are not alone, and a supportive community can help.