Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a crucial moment in a person's life. While cancer has many physical issues during the treatment phase, it can also create emotional pain for the person.
In my book, "Jeannie Ann's Grandma Has Breast Cancer," Jeannie Ann's grandmother talks about cancer's physical and emotional pain; both require different treatment types, which must effectively be carried out.
One way to help cope with the emotional distress of a cancer diagnosis is by joining a support group.
What is a Cancer Support Group?
A cancer support group is a social arrangement that offers a listening ear to people who are or were affected by cancer. Since cancer can alter a family's dynamic, some groups provide support for newly diagnosed persons, post-care persons, caregivers, and spouses.
These meetings occur regularly. While many sessions occur face-to-face, some may arrange theirs virtually or over the phone.
During these meetings, a group leader or facilitator may discuss particular topics. Some examples include opening up about your diagnosis to your family and how you've coped since the last meeting.
Each person gets a chance to share. These meetings may involve empathy, tears, laughter, acceptance, and even an opportunity to learn something new. Because cancer can be an isolating experience, even people with strong support networks can benefit from visiting a group of peers with similar experiences.
Why Do People Join Support Groups?
Joining a support group can effectively address any emotional pain or problem on a person's end. Regardless of the person's current relationship with friends and family, people join support groups because they may find it beneficial to be in a group where others have experienced the same things.
Additionally, spouses of cancer patients can also have their support group because the dynamics and responsibilities of being their spouse's primary caregiver are unique and require support and care.
Joining a support group can also remind the person that they are not alone. When a person undergoes a life-changing event, such as a serious diagnosis, it can alter the course of their life. When that happens, the urge to isolate yourself to prevent "becoming a burden" becomes tempting, but doing so rarely offers emotional security. On the other hand, joining a group can give one a new perspective and assurance.
How to Join a Cancer Support Group?
If you are interested in joining a cancer support group, consider asking your local hospital for any available meetings. You may also ask friends or peers for input or if they know any groups that offer a listening ear.
Bottomline: While a support group can help one cope, it is not a requirement for a person to join one. After all, not everyone who undergoes similar situations may find it beneficial because of various reasons.
However, it doesn't hurt to keep an open mind and see if joining a support group can help ease the burden. If you feel you do not fit in well with one group, there is no harm in looking for another group that aligns better with your emotional needs and values.
No comments:
Post a Comment