Get Support During Cancer Treatment

A diagnosis of cancer can be a shock. It often brings up extreme emotions. But as you learn more about your cancer and its treatments, and get support from those around you, hopefully those feelings will lessen.

Check out support from those around you. The members of you healthcare team can help by answering any questions that you might have about the disease and its treatment. Others who have had cancer, including family and friends, can help decrease your fears about what is come. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of your religious organization may also help.

Many people with cancer join support groups. In these groups, memebers share what they have learned about cancer and its treatments. And by sharing their experiences, you may not feel like you are all alone. Here are some choices for finding the right support for you:

• Ask a member of your healthcare team, such as a nurse or social worker to suggest a local or national group. Groups can offer emotional support, information, financial aid, transportation, home care, or other services.

• Call the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service at 800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237). This service has information on helpful programs.

• Call the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345). This nonprofit organization helps people with cancer and their families.