When you are diagnosed with a cancer like malignant
mesothelioma, having the support of friends, family
and others who are going through similar experiences
can be critical to coping with the emotions and
situations that arise. It has been shown that emotional
support and open patient discussion of issues helps
cancer patients' quality of life.
There are a vast array of support resources
available that allow cancer patients to share their
stories, increase their mutual understanding and draw
strength. These include private counseling, regional
group counseling, online support groups, and the
details you need to find the support group to best
suit you.
In addition to family and
friends, patients should consider the following
mesothelioma support services:
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Religious Leaders:
Members of the clergies of many faiths are trained
to deal with the concerns of mesothelioma
patients: pain, fear of death, feeling alone, and
searching for meaning.
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Home Care Services: State and local governments offer
many services useful after cancer treatment. A
nurse or physical therapist may be able to come
to your home. Check the phone book for non-profit
and for-profit Social Services, Health Services or
Aging Services.
-
National and Local Support Groups:
These provide educational programs, counseling and
open the lines of communication, easing the burden
for individuals suffering from life-threatening
diseases. Their web sites can help you connect
with others through discussion lists, message
boards, online question & answer, or
one-on-one matching with trained volunteers.
Visit the following web sites
to learn more about support available to mesothelioma
patients:
