Get Support During Treatment ... Health Article

Dealing with your feelings is often easier as you learn more about your disease and get support from others. Doctors, nurses, and other members of your healthcare team can answer your questions. Talk with friends and family or others who have had cancer. Or meet with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy. Many cancer patients attend support groups where they share what they have learned about cancer and its treatments. Here are some options for finding support.

• Ask a nurse or social worker at your hospital or clinic for help. They might suggest a local or national support group. These groups offer emotional support, information, financial aid, transportation, home care or other services.

• Call the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service. You can reach them at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). This service has information about resources.

• Call the American Cancer Society. You can reach them at 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345). This nonprofit organization helps patients and their families.