Definition

• A support group is a place where people who have similar experiences can go to receive emotional and practical support and exchange information. The purpose of the group is to provide a frame of reference for feelings and to connect to other survivors in a positive way.
  
  

Benefits

• Women who have survived breast cancer can offer empathy in a way that others can not. A support group can provide survivors with the knowledge that they are not going through this alone, which can be a great source of comfort. Aside from emotional benefits, survivors can receive practical information about ongoing medical treatments or advice on paying medical bills.
  
  

Local Support Groups

• Find a breast cancer support group in your area by making a few phone calls. Check with your local hospital about support groups that they sponsor. Your oncologist can most likely provide information. Local libraries might have a list of support groups in your area. Survivors can call the National Cancer Institute's Information Service line at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) to find support groups.
  
  

Online Support Groups

• There are many online support groups, such as the Pink Ribbon Girls and Breast Friends, that can provide survivor support. These support websites often host message boards where survivors can post questions or their thoughts and receive feedback from other members. Some online support groups host events where members can meet in person.
  
  

What to Look for in a Support Group

• While breast cancer survivors have different needs, there are some universal qualities of a well-functioning group. A good support group will have up-to-date reliable information and hold regular meetings or provide regular newsletters. Strong leadership as well as a clearly stated confidentiality policy is essential to a good survivor group.