Support Groups and Survival
Caution: Some complementary agents or therapies may be useful for cancer patients; however, some may be harmful in certain situations. MD Anderson Cancer Center cautions patients to consult with their oncologist before attempting to use any agents or therapies referenced on these pages. Inclusion of an agent, therapy or resource on this CIMER Web site does not imply endorsement by MD Anderson Cancer Center.
- Review is based upon articles published as of 9/20/05
- Information on the scientific basis for support groups is provided in the Detailed Scientific Review
Description
Support groups provide a time for patients and family members to discuss feelings, concerns and attitudes. Many groups are facilitated by trained mental health professionals or other members of a supportive care team, but others may be entirely led by patients. Some involve actual physical meetings while others may be online support groups. These support sessions may include education, relaxation techniques and the expressive arts or simply be open-ended opportunities to share thoughts, feelings and information.
Positive effects of support groups upon survival, pain reduction, and easing of distress have been demonstrated in a few randomized clinical trials. Dr. David Spiegel (N Eng J Med 345:1767-1768) has noted that recent trials may show less effect on survival because other supportive measures have become more common in recent years.
Side effects
Participating in a support group requires an investment in time and energy that may compete with family or other activities. Patients may experience unexpected emotions in some group sessions.
Possible risks
Some patients may be upset by the beliefs or coping mechanisms of other group members. Some groups may not be led by appropriately trained individuals or be in contact with reliable sources of information.
(If anything is uncomfortable or does not "feel right" about any particular group, individuals are encouraged to seek out other groups in which they feel more comfortable.)
Support Groups at MD Anderson
MD Anderson Cancer Center maintains active support groups sponsored by the Place ... of wellness, the Anderson Network and the Department of Social Work. Unless otherwise indicated, all groups are open and not limited to MD Anderson patients.
Important Advice
To avoid potential interactions, be sure to let your health care provider know if you use this or any other type of complementary therapy.
Authors and Editors
Initial authorship:
Nancy C. Russell, Dr.P.H., senior health education specialist, Integrative Medicine Program Education Component
Reviewers and editors:
Lorenzo P. Cohen, Ph.D., director, Integrative Medicine Program
Related Place ... of wellness Programs
Support Groups
- Breast Cancer Support Group
- Caregivers: "I've Got Feelings, Too!"
- Endometrial Cancer Support Group
- GU Lunch and Learn
- Houston Area Brain Tumor Network
- Ovarian Cancer Support Group
- Sarcoma Discussion Group