Mesothelioma Support

Mesothelioma support networks may be very diverse. Some find family and friends provide the support he needs. Others turn to their faith or spirituality. Still others join cancer support groups or if they are fortunate enough to find one, a Mesothelioma support group. A nurse or social worker on your treatment plan team will have the resources to direct you to such a support group.

Support groups vary in their ways of functioning. A victim of cancer facilitates some groups. Others may be led by a professional such as an oncologist (cancer) nurse, a psychologist, social worker, or chaplain. Support groups may be open to victims, friends, and family, yet some choose support groups that are for victims only.

Some support groups are open to anyone who wants to come and therefore the group may change from week to week. Other support groups are "closed" which as the name implies, are closed to outsiders and only open to the same people week after week. Occasionally there are times when new members are invited in. In this type of group, consistency is key to the way these group functions.

Whatever style one feels comfortable with will provide the most support. The primary goal of a cancer or Mesothelioma support group is to offer a caring, confidential atmosphere for the victim to express their emotions regarding their diagnosis, the strains the illness has placed on his family, his relationships, his finances, and his ability to work. Whatever a person feels the need to talk about can be discussed in a support group environment. One of the greatest benefits of a support group is learning from others who have been in the same situation and felt the same stresses. It is encouraging and empowering to help and be helped by other members of the same group.

There are many challenges with an illness of this severity. Often a support group is a logical and emotionally supportive place to discuss those challenges.

Coping with Mesothelioma is difficult. Support groups are helpful in that they provide encouragement, support, coping strategies and insights into how one may solve and cope with the problems this disease creates.