Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is a frightening, overwhelming and often isolating experience. You may not know where to turn for the support and assistance that you need to cope with the mental and emotional trauma of your diagnosis. Many patients attribute better mental health and quality of life to mesothelioma support groups. A support group can allow you to share your experience with others who understand exactly what you’re going through.
A support group brings people with similar needs and situations together. For example, someone who has been newly diagnosed with mesothelioma can meet and speak with someone who has been living with this disease for many years. Members of a mesothelioma support group can share their stories, make connections, spread their knowledge and resources, and gain friends. Participants can learn coping mechanisms, talk about their feelings, and feel heard and seen.
The many benefits of joining a mesothelioma support group can include:
Joining a mesothelioma support group can help you feel uplifted and positive again after receiving life-changing medical news. It can help you feel less alone and show you that you are not the only person struggling with this disease. It provides a safe space to express your feelings and learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage your stress, anger, sadness or anything else you may be feeling.
Finding the right mesothelioma support group for you starts with conducting a search in your region. You can ask your doctor or another member of your cancer care team if they recommend any local support groups to patients. Some hospitals with mesothelioma care units may host their own meetings. You can contact the National Cancer Information Center at 1-800-227-2345 to find a group near you.
Below are a few other resources for finding a mesothelioma support group:
Thanks to modern technology, you can get the support that you need without having to leave your home or hospital. Mesothelioma support groups are available by telephone, social networking sites such as Facebook and Zoom meetings. You can find a nationwide support group that has a Facebook page or another type of remote support group option to feel connected from the comfort of your own home.
The purpose of a mesothelioma support group is to help its participants cope with their diagnoses. Whether you join a support group online or in person, you will have the chance to connect with other people who understand what you’re going through and share your experience of living with an asbestos-related disease. You can say or not say as much as you like during a support group meeting; your participation is not mandatory.
The group is there to provide comfort, advice, stress relief and renewed hope. You should never feel pressured to speak about your experience if you do not want to. You can listen to others share their stories, advice and information. If you do wish to share your story, you will be given the opportunity to do so and speak to others who can empathize and may be able to help. Don’t be afraid to ask for the support that you need, whether it is resources in your community for mesothelioma survivors or just someone to listen.