Start here for a snapshot of all the different types of support available to you during breast cancer

We’re not researchers or scientists, but it is not difficult to believe that women who have a strong social support system in the first year after breast cancer diagnosis would have better survival rates and naturally, better quality of life. Support groups for breast cancer survivors are, thankfully, in abundance.

 

From typical in-person support group meetings to helplines, therapy sessions, online forums, social media, podcasts, blogs, and more, it’s not hard to find support groups to match your breast cancer survivor style.

 

What are the different types of support groups for breast cancer survivors?

If you feel more comfortable as one of many in a larger group, and you’re looking to make friendship connections in person, then group support may be a perfect fit for you. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, most support groups for breast cancer survivors offer specific services based on needs or interest. Some are organized according to the staging of your cancer (Stage I, Stage IV, etc.), acknowledging that the needs of the newly diagnosed woman will differ greatly from the needs of someone with a recurrent or metastatic cancer. Other groups may speak to young women, who often have particular questions related to children and fertility.

 

Smaller groups support breast cancer survivors, too

Of course, you may dislike group activities – that’s okay, too. When you’re seeking support groups during breast cancer, you have to find what works for YOU. Your health care team might help by giving you a list of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other types of professionals who work frequently with cancer patients.

 

Here are some great resources and groups who support breast cancer survivors.

 

www.abcdbreastcancersupport.org
Provides free, personalized information and one-to-one support to people affected by breast cancer – patients, families and friends.

 

www.facingourrisk.org
National nonprofit organization devoted to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, whose mission includes support, education, advocacy, awareness, and research.

 

Telephone support via helpline might work, as well. If you’re physically unable to go out but still want the support of other breast cancer survivor groups, this is a good option. Often, these services are staffed by volunteer breast cancer survivors. The LBBC and Breast Friends both have one:
www.lbbc.org
Living Beyond Breast Cancer is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering all women affected by breast cancer to live as long as possible with the best quality of life. Programs and services include lbbc.org, the Survivors’ Helpline at (888) 753-LBBC (5222), conferences, teleconferences, networking programs, newsletters, publications and recordings.

 

www.BreastFriends.org
24-hour national phone support line providing one-to-one comfort, emotional support, and information to breast cancer patients and their families.

 

Breast cancer support groups for other survivor needs:

www.LookGoodFeelBetter.org
Free, national public service program dedicated to teaching cancer patients beauty techniques to restore self-image during breast cancer treatment.

 

www.menagainstbreastcancer.org
This is a support group for breast cancer survivors that mobilizes men/partners to be active participants in the fight to eradicate the disease.

 

www.ShareCancerSupport.org
Official site for Self Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer (SHARE), a non-profit organization that provides support groups and services for women, men and children who have been affected by breast or ovarian cancer.

 

www.Sharsheret.org
A national not-for-profit organization of cancer survivors dedicated to addressing the unique challenges facing young women living with breast cancer.

 

www.theravive.com
Theravive is a network of independent counselors and clinics throughout North America who provide compassionate and competent therapy to people everywhere. You can search easily to find a skilled therapist or counselor.

 

If you’re a younger breast cancer survivor looking for support groups, look no further:

 

www.YoungSurvival.org
The premier organization in the U.S. dedicated to the critical issues unique to younger women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections and outreach.