How to Join a Lung Cancer Support Group

Contributor

By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating:

(0 Ratings)

Lung cancer is the result of abnormal cells invading the lungs. Dealing with lung cancer is emotionally challenging. Joining a support group can help. A support group is normally full of current and recovering cancer patients who have all had similar experiences on their journey through the cancer treatment process. Support groups often provide a great deal of comfort to cancer patients and make them feel less alone.

How Many People Survive Lung Cancer?
Researchers estimate lung cancer survival rates from a cross section of cancer patients. These rates indic… More
How to Live With Lung Cancer
Abnormal cell growth that is centered on or in the lungs may be lung cancer. Being diagnosed with lung can… More
How to Raise Awareness for Lung Cancer
One way to help prevent lung cancer is to raise awareness about the disease. Although it is one of the lea… More
How to Help Others With Lung Cancer
The disease known as lung cancer is caused by the unchecked growth of abnormal cells within the lungs. If … More
How to Join a Lung Cancer Support Group
Lung cancer is the result of abnormal cells invading the lungs. Dealing with lung cancer is emotionally ch… More
How to Reduce the Pain Caused by Lung Cancer
In patients with lung cancer, abnormal cells invade the lungs and begin to reproduce rapidly and without r… More
Building a Healthy Heart and Lungs After Smoking
Deciding to stop smoking is without question one of the healthiest choices you can make. After all, the da… More

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Ask your physician or oncologist about local support groups that specialize in lung cancer.
Step 2

Search for support groups in your area on the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources, below). You'll also find links to community events and volunteer opportunities.
Step 3

Stop making excuses for not going to a support group. You may think you're too tired or scared to join a group, but you shouldn't have to face your cancer diagnosis alone. Your mental health is vital to your chances of success.
Step 4

Consider turning to an online support group. You can maintain your anonymity and you may find you can discuss your feelings about your cancer diagnosis more openly and honestly.
Step 5

Visit a prospective group several times before making the decision to join. A support group can be instrumental in helping you start healing emotionally, so you'll want to feel completely comfortable with whichever group you select.
Step 6

Start your own group. Whether you just can't find a group specializing in lung cancer or your area lacks cancer resources, starting your own support group can be therapeutic for you and a great help to your community.

Tips & Warnings

Even if you've made the decision to join a support group, there may be some aspects of your treatment you'd rather keep private. Always remember that you have the right to confidential medical care under the Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
There are also support groups for those who are caring for someone with lung cancer. These can be an enormous help, both during the treatment and for aftercare and continuing concerns.

Who Can Help Sponsored