If you’ve received a breast cancer diagnosis, several thoughts and fears may be racing in your mind. If you are going through mainstream cancer treatment, you may be suffering from side effects. You need to know that you’re not alone and there are ways out there for you to better navigate life. Although you may be supported by family and your close circle, connecting with women who have experienced the journey could be very helpful. A support group will give you the chance to share information in a safe and confidential space, benefit from resources, overcome fears, and regain a sense of purpose through choices. Here are some of the benefits:
Improve your coping skills
After the doctor’s visit confirming your diagnosis, you are likely stressed out about the situation and confused about what’s next for you. Seeking advice from members who know exactly how that feels is great to gain valuable insight into concerns. Through exercise, specific diet, and meditation, you can better manage the stress of the illness.
Increase your scope of knowledge
You can learn about different treatment options and additional resources that extend beyond traditional treatment. You can gain access to information on how complementary therapies can help reduce the side effects of mainstream cancer treatment and better manage cancer recurrence. The tips shared by breast cancer patients and survivors will ease the difficulty of adjusting to life after the diagnosis. You will realize that you have rights, you have choices, and you can still take control of your own life.
Speak honestly
You will have the safe space to express how you are feeling and manage your breast cancer. Group dynamics can help you express your struggles and address them. You will connect with others and learn how to deal with these challenges.
Improve your quality of life
All in all, participating in a support group can improve your emotional health due to the social interaction that improves your outlook and the new choices you know you can now take. Musa Mayer, a cancer survivor and patient advocate expresses: “Belonging to a group where you can discuss anything, and everything is very freeing. The loneliness and isolation that so many feel when they are going through the breast cancer journey can be helped, if not erased.” Moreover, the resources available will give you a new perspective on your life and well-being.
The Breast Friends Support Group is an online support service organized by Soha Wellness for women who have been touched by Breast Cancer. The support group aims to empower each other and share the cancer journey while committing to confidentiality. This is a platform to express yourself, to openly share your emotions, and to be empowered to overcome your challenges in good health, physically and emotionally. If you are interested in joining or know someone who would benefit, visit this link: https://sohawellness.com/breast-wellness/
