If I decide to try out a group, how do I locate one right for me?

45. What are support groups and how can
they help me? If I decide to try out a group,
how do I locate one right for me?

People with cancer and their family members often find
that talking to other people who are also affected by
cancer helps them understand that they are not alone.
They may learn new ways of coping and be relieved to
be able to discuss their concerns openly with someone
who has had similar experiences and understands.

There are different types of support groups. Some
agencies, such as CancerCare, Inc., and the American
Cancer Society, offer traditional groups as well as
innovative groups that are conducted on the Internet
and on the telephone. These latter two types of groups
are particularly helpful to people who are not comfortable
meeting many new people, for those who
simply do not feel well enough to travel from their
homes, and for those who live too far away from
group meetings.

Professionals facilitate some groups, while cancer survivor
volunteers or family members of patients (for
groups intended for family) lead other groups. Therapy
groups are intended to treat a specific psychological
problem, such as clinical depression, and are usually
led by a mental health professional. Support groups
focus on sharing experiences, providing emotional support
to people as well as helping to reduce distress and
relieve isolation. Educational groups, on the other
hand, are used to provide information to a large group
of people, such as different coping techniques, relaxation
training, and management of medical issues.


Therapy groups =  Group counseling to treat a specific 
therapeutic issue (e.g., depression, anxiety) led by a 
mental health professional. 

Educational groups = A gathering of people where 
information is presented on a range of topics (e.g., 
coping techniques, relaxation methods, management
of medical issues).


This kind of group focuses less on people sharing their
feelings and may be good for those who do not want to
attend a traditional support group, but would still
benefit from interaction with others. Support and
education-focused groups can be led by a variety of
professionals and/or survivor volunteers. For help
locating support groups, speak with your medical team
and/or social worker, or consult our resource list at the
back of this book. The American Cancer Society can
be particularly helpful in directing you to local groups.
Questions to ask when investigating a group:

1. Does a professional lead this group? Or does a volunteer
facilitate it?
2. Do I have to commit to a certain number of sessions?
3. What date does the group start? How long is each
session?
4. Where does the group meet, and may I have directions
to the meeting?
5. Is there a cost to attend this group? If so, do you
accept my insurance?
6. What topics are covered? Is this a group for people
with specific problems (e.g., depression, anxiety,
family concerns)?
7. Does this group focus on a specific cancer diagnosis?
8. Are family members/caregivers invited to attend?