Studies have shown that cancer patients who actively discuss their health issues, life concerns, and emotions show both mental and physical improvement. While the medical professionals are focused on your treatments, you need to ensure that you, and your family, are receiving the support you need. Family and friends are an invaluable support structure for mesothelioma patients, but participating in cancer support groups can connect patients and can help individuals learn from shared experiences.
Finding the right support resources is not only important for the patient but also for the mesothelioma caregiver. Financial concerns, changing family roles, and anxiety can place additional strain on family members.
There are therapists who are experienced in helping families cope with serious illnesses and grief management. Including a trained counselor as a part of your support structure can help provide you with options at a time when it might seem there aren't many options.
Support groups can provide a confidential environment where patients and caregivers can get emotional support, and practical advice on everyday questions such as the management of treatment side effects.
These support groups provide counseling, education and communication for victims of life-threatening diseases.
Association of Cancer Online Resources (ACOR)
The Association of Cancer Online Resources (ACOR) manages a mailing list for mesothelioma patients.
Link: http://www.acor.org/support.html
Lung Cancer Alliance
The Lung Cancer Alliance is the only national non-profit organization dedicated solely to patient support and advocacy for people living with lung cancer or those at risk for the disease.
Link: http://www.alcase.org/facing/support.html
American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR)
The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) Cancer Resource provides information to cancer patients and their families.
Link: http://www.aicr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cs_resources
Cancer Care Counseling
Cancer Care Counseling provides free professional counseling for individuals or professionally facilitated support groups.
Link: http://www.cancercare.org/get_help/counseling.php
AMC Cancer Center - Cancer Information and Counseling Line (CICL)
The AMC Cancer Research Center and University of Colorado Cancer Center have operated a toll-free Cancer Information and Counseling Line (CICL) for over 25 years, staffed by masters-trained and licensed counselors. To speak with a counselor through CICL,
call 1-800-525-3777 (Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00 MST).
Link: http://www.amc.org/now-education.html
Hospice Education Institute
The Hospice Education Institute offers Hospicelink, which maintains a computerized database and up-to-date directory of all hospice and palliative care programs in the United States. A free telephone number (800-331-1620) offers referrals to hospice and palliative care programs, and provides general information about the principles and practices of good hospice and palliative care.
Our Website also contains general information on Hospice Care as well as a Directory of State Hospice Associations.
Link: http://www.hospiceworld.org/
The Wellness Community
The Wellness Community is an international non-profit organization dedicated to providing free support, education and hope to people with cancer and their loved ones.
Link: http://www.thewellnesscommunity.org/
Medical News Today
The latest Asbestos and Mesothelioma News articles published daily by Medical News Today.
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