When you receive that cancer diagnosis, it seems like it’s the end of the world. You don’t know what would happen next. You also worry that you will leave behind your family members who aren’t stable yet. You could also lose your job since you’re physically weak to head out and work.
Before you lose hope, you need to consider joining support groups for cancer patients. Being around people who go through the same ordeal as you can do wonders. These are the benefits of being in a support group.
You can vent your feelings to other people
It’s frustrating to be a cancer patient. You want to do the things you usually do, but you couldn’t. You want to play sports or go to the gym, but your body aches. You might even feel terrible when you have visitors at the hospital, and they pity you. These people no longer see you the way they used to. When you’re in a support group, you can vent your feelings. You will find it easier to express how you feel and your frustrations. These people go through the same ordeal as you and will understand if you rant. It’s better than expressing your true feelings with the people around you.
You will listen to other stories
When you’re in a support group, you will hear a lot of people talking about their difficulties as a cancer patient. You can relate to them and feel relieved knowing that you’re not the only one. Conversely, you will also hear stories of patients who survived cancer. They will tell you what they went through and what they did to overcome the problem. Listening to them will inspire you to keep fighting until you are cancer-free.
You don’t have to depend on your family all the time
Your family members will be there for you to help you get through cancer. They might even sacrifice their lives to give you what you need. Sometimes, you will feel guilty because you’re changing their lifestyle to support you. If you talk to them to help you with your emotional issues, it might be a lot. Therefore, it feels good to have a support group. You can count on them to be there for you as you go through a fierce emotional battle. They also go through the same thing, and they can provide the support you need.
You feel loved
Being in a support group allows you to feel genuine love. It doesn’t mean that the people around you don’t love you. The problem is that sometimes, you feel like they’re only there for you out of pity. These fellow cancer patients don’t pity you. If they care for you, it’s because they feel that way. They also hate being pitied, so they won’t do the same to you.
If you’re too weak to attend support group meetings, you can download an app for cancer social network. You will find other people who are also going through a huge battle against cancer, and you can build a relationship with them.