Online Support Groups, Why Join Them?
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To clarify, men’s online support groups are online gatherings where men share experiences and support each other. A place they can enjoy the companionship of other men in their prostate cancer journey.
General support groups may be useful for patients dealing with all types of cancer. However, they would benefit more from a group specifically for patients who have a particular type of cancer. Such as prostate cancer.
As many prostate cancer survivors can attest, a crucial function of online support groups (like any other support group) is to provide encouragement.
This can be either following diagnosis, treatment, or in the unfortunate case that a patient develops recurring cancer.
How online support groups can benefit you
Support groups help prostate cancer patients in a lot of ways. Particularly, in coping with the emotional hurdles of prostate cancer. They can also act as an important resource of information for anyone dealing with prostate cancer.
Here at Man Cave Health, for instance, we host a regular online support group for men with prostate cancer.
However, online support groups don’t just stop there. There are even support groups for those connected to people that are dealing with cancer.
If you have a loved one who is suffering from prostate cancer, there are groups out there for you too. And this goes too for caregivers, who also take on a lot in their support. Coping with the emotional and psychological toll of cancer is an arduous journey and one we shouldn’t endure on our own.
An additional benefit of online support groups is how the orientation, emotional support, and information can help them make decisions about care. Men who are already undergoing treatment for prostate cancer are able to discuss and learn more about quality-of-life issues. Many of these may arise following treatment. For example, erectile dysfunction (ED), incontinence, anxiety & depression, appetite, and so on.
What about those who have gone through prostate cancer care already?
For many men, part of the healing journey from prostate cancer can involve giving back. For those who have gone through so much, it can be a very cathartic experience to reciprocate the support they received during their most trying times.
Previous qualitative studies demonstrate positive outcomes associated with attending cancer-specific support groups. They provide a unique feeling of community, unconditional acceptance, accurate information about cancer, and personal empowerment. As opposed to, isolation and rejection that individuals might experience on their own.
Additionally, having a trained facilitator discussing the diversity of treatments can be a huge asset.
If you want to keep up to date with our virtual prostate cancer support group, click on this link.
Check our resources section for further information. Where we can even help you connect with a prostate cancer survivor.
If you have any questions, or just want to talk, call us at our toll-free hotline: 1(833)HEAL-MEN. You are not alone in this journey. We are here to help guide and support you through it, every step of the way.
