Cancer Patient Support Groups: Calgary Organization Explains Emotional Benefits

A celebrated poem tells us that "no man is an island." And that's especially true for those with cancer, although the disease certainly does its best to prove the statement wrong.

Cancer can be isolating. The disease causes pain and fatigue. And frequently, so do the treatments. Your need to conserve energy and avoid illness can limit social gatherings.

Even when you have the energy to meet friends, it isn't the same. You struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness that they can't relate to. Can't understand.

Support groups can make a huge difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families, according to the cancer experts at PROSTAID Calgary. And with survival rates rising, those groups are important for longer and longer stretches of time. Learn more about why a support group may be worth your limited time and energy.

First, The Good News

Death rates for several types of cancer have been decreasing for decades. Breast cancer rates have dropped 44 percent since a peak in 1989, prostate cancer deaths have plateaued after an earlier 42 percent drop, and lung cancer rates have declined by 4.5 percent annually between 2018 and 2022.

While there are some exceptions, mainly in gastrointestinal cancers, the numbers are headed in the right direction. Declining smoking rates have led to reductions in lung cancer and cancers of the lips and throat. Screenings have advanced in technology and public awareness, catching many cancer cases before they advance. And treatments are getting better and better.

Longer Lives Require More Support

Extended survival rates mean cancer patients are living longer. But this means individuals with cancer and their loved ones are living longer, with cancer. And some research shows that joining a support group can improve your quality of life, and maybe even your chances for survival, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Being part of a support group can make a real difference during cancer care. Here’s how:

• You feel less alone – being with people who “get it” can bring comfort and connection.
• You find hope – seeing others cope and even thrive inspires strength.
• You can share feelings – it’s a safe place to talk about fears, worries, and wins.
• You learn tips and tricks – from handling side effects to daily challenges.
• You cope better with treatment – encouragement makes the journey easier.
• You gain knowledge – groups often share helpful resources and ideas.
• You feel stronger – speaking up and helping others builds confidence.
• You make friends – support can grow into lasting relationships.

Finding A Group

You already have a lot on your plate. Tracking down a group doesn't need to be time-consuming. You can ask your health care team, a hospital social worker, or even other cancer patients if they have a group to recommend. Looking up advocacy groups for your individual cancer type is another good place to start.