Support Groups: Why are they important for breast cancer patients?

Dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis itself can get very overwhelming, and surely, all breast cancer patients and survivors would agree to this. Many women undergo a lot of anxiety, stress, and depression when they are diagnosed with breast cancer and dealing with the treatment effects could make it even worse. But what’s better than listening to or sharing your experiences with women who are facing similar situations or women who have survived this? Have you ever thought about it?

Well, this is what is referred to as a support group! As the name suggests, support groups include a group of people in similar situations, who can meet regularly to discuss and share their concerns and experiences. They can connect in person, through telephone or even online. There is no standardized method of how support groups must be conducted, however, support groups for breast cancers are generally led by professionals including psychiatrists, oncologists, psychologists, etc. or are led by breast cancer survivors. Irrespective of the method, these support groups have shown to have a positive impact on psychological well-being for women with breast cancer.

Types of support groups for breast cancer patients

1- Support groups led by professionals:These supports groups may include trained professionals with different specializations who are experienced in organizing support groups. They help to identify different needs of the group members and respond accordingly.

2- Support groups led by breast cancer survivors: These groups allow to bring out personal experiences to help women deal with breast cancer. For example, these women can provide advice on what to expect when you are newly diagnosed with breast cancer, during treatment and after treatment. This can help women condition their mind accordingly, for a positive attitude moving forward with their treatment.

You may choose any kind of support group based on your needs. Once you have selected your support group, you may take some time to get accustomed to the group setting. Also, for some people, sharing feelings or experiences may be more difficult than others. In such situations, you can still be a part supports groups if you are only comfortable listening to other’s experiences.

Importance of support groups for breast cancer patients

They provide a sense of companionship

As you continue to involve in these groups, you may find deeper connections which help you share your feelings/experiences without a fear of judgment. Your group members may be at different stages of their breast cancer recovery, but just by listening to them you can deal with your own situation in a better way. Similarly, sharing your story can help your fellow members too!

They remind you that you are not alone

Going through a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment often gives you an isolated feeling, even with your closest friends and family. This is because it is quite difficult for them to understand the intensity of your situation and they may not be able to match your range of feelings and emotions. Thus, support groups help you connect with people who are on the same page as you, and reduce feelings of isolation.

They improve your coping skills

Fellow members from support groups provide you with valuable insights of various aspects including diet, exercise and other methods which help you cope with your breast-cancer related stress and anxiety. They can also provide you with tips and resources to find more information about your treatment options, all of which can ease your difficulty of dealing with breast cancer.

They improve your quality of life

Involvement in support groups enhances communication with your doctors and family members. Interacting with different kinds of women with breast cancer can help to motivate you, give you a better outlook towards your situations, improve your mental well-being, uplift your spirits and improve overall quality of your life.

List of breast cancer support groups in Hyderabad

Swastava Cancer Care Society
Support Groups for Cancer Patients by Cancer Assist
Breast Cancer Hub
Grace Cancer Foundation
Mother Teresa Charitable Trust and Cancer Foundation
Indian Cancer Society
Sri Shankara Cancer Foundation
Cancer Assist
Usha Lakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation