How to Find a Cancer Support Group

Along with your cancer diagnosis, many challenges have probably surfaced for both you and your family. During this tumultuous time, a professionally led support group can serve as an invaluable safe haven, providing an affirming environment where you can learn coping skills, communicate openly, overcome feelings of isolation and connect with others who are facing similar situations.

Despite the potential benefits, however, you might be actively avoiding cancer support groups – and your reasons are likely quite understandable. Entering an unfamiliar situation and meeting new people at this time – or any time – can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t yet had a chance to process all that you are going through.

Moffitt Cancer Center wants to help. We offer a variety of supportive care services. Whether you opt to attend an informal networking session, talk over the telephone with a peer advisor, participate in an online discussion group or talk one-on-one with one of our oncology social workers, you can turn to Moffitt for the support you need at every step of your cancer journey.

How to get the most out of a cancer support group

Regardless of the format you choose, here are some tips on how to make the most of your cancer support experience:

• Find out how the group operates in advance. Every group – and every meeting – is different, and you’ll probably feel more prepared and relaxed if you know what to expect beforehand.
• Be flexible. If you initially feel as if you don’t “fit in,” that might actually be a good thing. Remember, everyone has something unique to contribute, and both you and the group could potentially benefit from being exposed to different knowledge, experiences and perspectives.
• Keep trying. If you decide that one group isn’t for you, don’t give up. You might find that a different group provides the precise type of support you are looking for.

With Moffitt, you are never alone. If you’d like to learn more about our supportive care services, you can request an appointment by calling 1-888-663-3488 or completing our new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.