While everyone handles stressful situations differently, many people benefit from turning to others for emotional support. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, reaching out to others for encouragement and assistance can be a crucial tool.
Studies have shown that having a strong social network is highly beneficial in many ways. Spending time talking with friends and family can boost your mood, and help to decrease stress levels. It can also help to make you feel like you belong. All of these things are vital when you are coping with an illness.
Support groups help bring together people who are dealing with similar situations. Many people find that connecting with those who know firsthand what they are going through can be very helpful. Discussing your experiences and feelings with other mesothelioma or lung cancer patients is a good reminder that you are not alone; there are many other people out there familiar with what you are up against.
Support groups come in different forms; they sometimes meet and talk over the phone, in person, or online. Social media sites like Facebook can be a helpful place to find and join support groups for discussion, and allow members to connect with others near and far from the comfort of home. Organizations such as The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation offer various support groups to suit individual needs.
Keep in mind that many local community resources are available as well, such as churches and libraries. Your doctor may also be able to provide information on area resources, or could help connect you with a therapist. Many people find that talking with a trained therapist or counselor is beneficial. Not only can such professionals offer suggestions and techniques for coping, but they also offer a confidential setting for you to vent and discuss anything that is on your mind.
Deciding what kind of support group or method to pursue, if any, is a very personal decision. The most important part is to make sure that you feel comfortable, and that the group or method of support is a good fit for you. If one avenue doesn’t seem right, don’t be discouraged—there are many other options available.
source: cooneyconway.com
