How to Join a Breast Cancer Support Group

A diagnosis of breast cancer can be devastating for yourself, as well as for your family. However, having a solid support system in place can go a long way to help you get through this challenging time. In fact, a breast cancer support group can offer guidance and support for family members as well. Get the support and safe haven you need by learning how to join a breast cancer support group.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Ask your physician to recommend a breast cancer support group that meets locally in your area. There will usually be at least one such group that meets at the local hospital or a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment center nearby.

2. Check the classifieds of your local newspaper to find a breast cancer support group in your community. Very often you can attend group sessions as a spectator to see if the group seems to be a comfortable fit for you before you join.

3. Talk to other women (and men) that you meet at your breast cancer treatment clinic or hospital. Chances are that they can introduce you to a breast cancer support group.

4. Visit the website for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation to join a support group online (see Resources below). Joining a group online allows you to preserve your anonymity and may even encourage you to more openly express your feelings about having breast cancer.

5. Note that it may be necessary to provide a valid email address and create a registration profile, including a screen name and password if you decide to join an online breast cancer support group. However, be assured that your information will be secure and kept confidential.

6. Call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at (800)4-CANCER or [phone] if you need additional assistance in locating a breast cancer support group.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage your spouse and children to join the breast cancer support group with you since the entire family is impacted by a diagnosis of breast cancer. In fact, expect that they will experience the gamut of emotions that you may be feeling (fear, anger, guilt), but at their own pace.
• As with any other Internet-based community, the general rule is to be guarded about sharing specific information as to your identity and location. Since an online breast cancer support group is an open source and available for anyone to join, keep this precaution in mind.

Resources

• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation breast cancer support group online

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