Mesothelioma Patient Support

Family and friends are always important when you have mesothelioma, but you may also find it beneficial to be in contact with others who share similar challenges. It has been shown that emotional support and open patient discussion of issues helps cancer patients' quality of life.

There are different categories of support. First and foremost do not underestimate the importance of support from family and friends. Human connections in difficult times become even more important and precious, especially with people with whom you are close. You may want to consider counseling, whether individual, couples or family, as a way to help deal with emotions like anger or sadness and concern about the future. This counseling can also help communications among family members.

In addition to family and friends, mesothelioma patients should consider a number of possible support services:

•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.
•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.
When it comes to cancer or mesothelioma support groups, it is important to remember that different support groups may have different focuses and procedures. Some groups are facilitated by a psychologist or social worker, but the core of the meeting is the personal sharing of the members. Others are led by group members, and are referred to as peer or self-help groups. Some groups are designed to be educational and structured, others emphasize emotional support and shared experience. The key is in finding a group that matches your needs