Being diagnosed with breast cancer is one of the most challenging and trying medical diagnoses you can receive. The implications of treatment, how the disease affects you, and how cancer will interfere with your daily life is a massive burden not only to undertake but also to sort through mentally. Additionally, once cancer has been healed, the road to recovering and getting back to a normal life is a giant hurdle. Luckily, there are various forms of support and support groups out there to not only ensure you are ok in treatment and recovery but also to aid with the mental toll cancer takes on you. In this article, we break down the types of support you can expect when you have breast cancer, rehab, and PT options, and how to support a loved one you may know who has breast cancer.
What Are Support Groups For Breast Cancer Survivors
A breast cancer support group is a group of people and professionals who come together and help those diagnosed with cancer, in treatment for cancer, or those who have beaten cancer. These groups can help with community building, practical advice, logistical help, advice for insurance and healthcare options, and much more. Below are some of the key aspects of a breast cancer support group, along with a slight description of what these aspects add to those with breast cancer utilizing the support group.
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Counseling
Counseling is a great way for patients to cope with the diagnosis of cancer, manage the emotions treatment may bring, and focus on the goals they need to ensure quality of life. Counseling is a vital piece of the treatment puzzle, as the mental health and strength of a patient are just as vital as their physical well-being. Support groups will offer one-on-one counseling and group meetings to help support breast cancer patients. Doctors can also be available to answer questions and provide a deeper understanding of the situation.
Patient and Families
Support groups extend beyond the patient, as many have resources on how to cope as a family unit, how to support a loved one going through breast cancer treatment, and a variety of other key social and care tools for your loved one. The unique setting a support group provides can do many different things, such as help children understand the scope of the situation, help spouses learn how to manage the stress of treatment and other super beneficial ways to manage breast cancer as a family.
Rehabilitation and PT
Rehab and PT are essential to the recovery process, treatment process, and the ability for a patient to resume their normal daily activities. Rehab is a key tool in restoring mobility, managing pain, reducing lymphedema risk, enhancing quality of life, and helping support emotional and mental well-being. These two facets of recovery are often brought under a breast cancer patient support group, where each patient has their own unique protocol for getting back to the state they require to be in. Consistency in these functions allows for faster recovery and a better overall outlook on the life of the patient.
Benefits Of Support Groups
The benefits of all laid out above are plentiful and highly useful for those facing the great challenge breast cancer poses. For starters, emotional and mental support are a key driver and benefits for those who participate in support groups of this kind. Along with this are key pieces of information or resources regarding all of the aspects of cancer treatment and diagnosis.
Another benefit to a support group is the practical advice that someone battling breast cancer may benefit from. This could mean how to manage side effects from cancer or treatment best, how to navigate difficult healthcare systems, and how to deal with insurance companies. Finally, one of the fundamental aspects of a support group is the sense of community and friendships built along the way. A breast cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering, mindset-shifting ordeal. Having a community of those who have experienced what you are going through can give you strength, hope, and courage to face the challenges that cancer will have ahead.
Which Is Right For You and Your Family
Determining the best support group for you and your family is important. The support group you choose will have a drastic impact on how treatment and progress with the cancer is accomplished. Being comfortable with the support group, understanding the key tools and responsibilities of the group, and, most importantly, ensuring the patient wants to be a part of said group are all paramount to this crucial decision.
Impact Of Breast Cancer Diagnosis
The impact the diagnosis of breast cancer can have on a patient and family is profound. Finding the right group of professionals, other patients, and friends to help manage the process of battling cancer is ultimately one of the best ways to achieve a better outcome. The right support for a patient can ensure that life can resume as positively as possible while also creating a space for the patient to vent, manage emotions, and find tactical support for their treatment.
Finding A Local Support Group
Finding a local support group is easier than ever with online resources and other local support group options. Below are some websites you can use to find the best support groups in your area. Feel free to try more than one, as finding the best fit for you is key. Use the links below to find your support:
This Reddit thread also holds some great pieces of advice from real-world patients who have found support through various channels. Other options can include Facebook groups, social media communities, and recommendations from those in your immediate and inner circle.
![shutterstock_1299510538-[Converted]](https://magview.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/shutterstock_1299510538-Converted.jpg "monitoring breast density")
