A support group may help you survive cancer

Having cancer is stressful and depression can affect the likelihood of surviving cancer.

Without psychological intervention and support dealing with the emotional distress can be overwhelming and frightening.

Families and friends also face challenges that may leave them feeling lonely as they support their loved ones, The ensuing anxiety can threaten a patient’s sense of security and cause intense feeling of emotional suffering.

Cancer support groups have been used successfully to help patients and families cope by providing them with a forum to meet other patients.

Support groups provide a safe place to share experiences and learn people facing similar situations.

Psychological trauma

Social support allows patients to overcome the psychological trauma that accompanies diagnosis, treatment and relapse.

Started four years ago, the support group at Aga Khan University Hospital affords cancer patients and survivors, and their families an opportunity to meet and share experiences.

The group encourages people to make the most of their life in spite of uncertainties. Patients attend the group’s activities when they feel like, depending on their social and clinical circumstances.

A meeting may have up to 35 participants with one or two of them acting as facilitators. Though the agenda is chosen beforehand, it often changes because of various factors. For instance, newly diagnosed participants may become overemotional which could affect the mood of the group.

Professionals participate to offer guidance on clinical issues with the participants taking the lead in discussion.

Groups may deal with specific cancers eg breast or cervical or several types. Some groups are gender specific for instance prostate or ovarian cancer support groups. Most participants says the meeting helps them understand treatment options.

|   |    |    Comments (0) |   Add Comment