A Guest Blog Post Encouraging Cancer Patients

Why Cancer Patients Need Support Groups

If you have cancer or survived it, you almost certainly remember the exact moment when you received the diagnosis. First came shock, then perhaps denial, and then questions. Later that night, you may have lain awake, your mind full of worry and other powerful feelings. Usually, this is just the beginning of what is nearly always a very emotional journey. Thankfully, you don't need to take it alone.

Even if you think you have no need of a support group when you first attend a meeting, you will soon discover that the benefits of being there extend far beyond the walls of room. Those who participate almost always report that their group was a vital source of comfort. After all, cancer touches every area of your life. Often, you will need support as you adjust to changes in energy or physical abilities. If your oncologist has recommended surgeries, there may be changes to your appearance. Time off of work, and an altered role within your family may also affect you. The people in your support group will often have similar experiences. As a support group member, you'll discover a great sense of relief when you're able to talk freely about these challenges without needing to concern yourself with the affect it will have on your friends, spouse, or children.

The opportunity to learn from each other and lean on one another can make a challenging time in your life bearable. The effects of this support are measurable. In one study of women diagnosed with gynecological cancer, those who participated in a support group reported less depression and anxiety, better relationships with their caregivers, better sexual function, and a higher level of participation in leisure activities. In short, group therapy was an essential means of gaining a sense of control and hope.

Often, it is the recovery of empowerment that is hardest to attain. The modern view of cancer seems to imply that a positive attitude and clean living might make us immune to it. Thus, when a person has cancer through no fault of their own, the social stigma and even internal self-blame require the healing presence of an understanding community. There are different groups for many different types of cancer including but not limited to, breast cancer, melanoma, bone cancer and even very rare and terminal cancers. Groups that focus on healing and getting better usually have to do with the common cancer such as breast cancer. Yet there are also those groups that need to focus on coping with a deadly disease. For instance, many of those who have mesothelioma contracted it when they were exposed through work or warfare to asbestos. Mesothelioma prognosis is poor. The mesothelioma survival rate at 5 years is 10%. Thus, patients are often faced with reconciling their feelings about mortality while also navigating complex legal issues related to collecting compensation or veteran's benefits. While perhaps not identical, issues like these are part of every cancer patient's life. When so much about their lives might feel as if it is beyond their control, patients find great comfort knowing they can take a hand in determining their psychological and spiritual being via a cancer support group.

By: David Haas