Benefits of Cancer Support Groups
Benefits of Cancer Support Groups
The diagnosis of any cancer including common cancers such as breast cancer and even rare diseases like mesothelioma can result in feelings of fear, anxiety, depression and numerous other negative associations. For many patients, it might be a devastating diagnosis because it means scary changes. This is where cancer support networks contribute to the health of any patient.
What are Support Groups?
A support group, whether it is an online network or a group meeting in a physical setting, is any gathering where cancer survivors, current cancer patients and patients who have cancer that is currently in remission can go for support, advice and understanding.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the support group is not the same as a group therapy because the focus of the group is not treating mental health in a formal setting. Instead, a member of the group might lead the sessions or might invite a medical professional such as a doctor, a nurse or an oncologist to discuss various aspects of the cancer. Other groups might focus on emotional support rather than cancer education, resulting in groups that fit almost any personal need while you go through cancer and cancer survival.
Benefits of Support Groups:
The benefits of support groups will obviously differ depending on the goal of the group, but a few common benefits are seen with most support groups. One main benefit is the ability to discuss your problems openly with others who are going through the same situation. You will not feel as isolated or lonely when you have others offering similar stories and understanding your story.
Another potential benefit that you might have with a support group is better coping skills. As others share the ways that they cope with the problems and stress of cancer, your coping skills improve. You’ll learn new ways to limiting stress and getting back in control.
Any group that invites doctors or medical professionals can provide the latest information in cancer treatment options or advice on options that you might discuss with your doctor. Furthermore, doctors have access to the latest research, so they can provide you with details about new research.
Anyone who is just starting cancer treatment can find out from survivors what they can expect from the treatment, making the situation less intimidating.
Conclusion:
Support groups and online support networks benefit any cancer patient or survivor because it shows that you are not alone and that you have options. Getting advice, learning more about treatments and talking to others about your situation can improve your outlook on your situation.
By: David Haas
The diagnosis of any cancer including common cancers such as breast cancer and even rare diseases like mesothelioma can result in feelings of fear, anxiety, depression and numerous other negative associations. For many patients, it might be a devastating diagnosis because it means scary changes. This is where cancer support networks contribute to the health of any patient.
What are Support Groups?
A support group, whether it is an online network or a group meeting in a physical setting, is any gathering where cancer survivors, current cancer patients and patients who have cancer that is currently in remission can go for support, advice and understanding.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the support group is not the same as a group therapy because the focus of the group is not treating mental health in a formal setting. Instead, a member of the group might lead the sessions or might invite a medical professional such as a doctor, a nurse or an oncologist to discuss various aspects of the cancer. Other groups might focus on emotional support rather than cancer education, resulting in groups that fit almost any personal need while you go through cancer and cancer survival.
Benefits of Support Groups:
The benefits of support groups will obviously differ depending on the goal of the group, but a few common benefits are seen with most support groups. One main benefit is the ability to discuss your problems openly with others who are going through the same situation. You will not feel as isolated or lonely when you have others offering similar stories and understanding your story.
Another potential benefit that you might have with a support group is better coping skills. As others share the ways that they cope with the problems and stress of cancer, your coping skills improve. You’ll learn new ways to limiting stress and getting back in control.
Any group that invites doctors or medical professionals can provide the latest information in cancer treatment options or advice on options that you might discuss with your doctor. Furthermore, doctors have access to the latest research, so they can provide you with details about new research.
Anyone who is just starting cancer treatment can find out from survivors what they can expect from the treatment, making the situation less intimidating.
Conclusion:
Support groups and online support networks benefit any cancer patient or survivor because it shows that you are not alone and that you have options. Getting advice, learning more about treatments and talking to others about your situation can improve your outlook on your situation.
By: David Haas
posted by Angie | 9:06 pm
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