University of California, Los Angeles
School of Medicine Department of Ocnology

Lots of people receive support from friends and family, but support groups can have many benefits as well. The main reason why people join a support group is to be with others who have had similar experiences. Joining a support group improves quality of life and enhances survival.

Support groups can:

• Give you a chance to talk about your feelings and work through them

• Help you deal with practical problems, such as problems at work or school

• Help you cope with side effects of treatment

There are many types of support groups. Some may be for one type of cancer only, while others may be open to those with any cancer. Some may be for men or women only. Support groups may be led by health professionals or fellow cancer survivors. Support groups just aren’t for those with cancer, but can be helpful for children or family members of survivors. These groups focus on family concerns such as role changes, relationship changes, financial worries, and how to support the person who has cancer. Some groups include both cancer survivors and family members. Support groups meet in person and they can also meet online. For a full calendar listing of groups and how to access them, please see our events calendar or call (310) 794-6644. All groups offered through the Simms/Mann - UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology require an in person visit with an oncology social worker or psychologist to help tailor a support program that is right for you. There is no charge for our UCLA patients for this visit and information will be provided about all groups and services that are appropriate for you. To schedule this appointment, please call (310) 794-6644.

 
How to tell if a support group is right for you:
A support group may not be right for everyone. For some people hearing about others’ problems can make them feel worse. Or you may find that your need for a support group changes over time.

Some questions to ask the group leader if you are thinking about joining a support group:

• How large is the group?

• Who attends (survivors, family members, types of cancer, age range)?

• How long are the meetings?

• How often does the group meet?

• How long has the group been together?

• Who leads the meetings – a professional or a survivor?

• What is the format of the meetings?

• Is the main purpose to share feelings, or do people also offer tips to solve common problems?

• If I go, can I just sit and listen or do I have to participate?

Questions to ask yourself to see if a support group is right for you:

• Am I comfortable talking about personal issues?

• Do I have something to offer to the group?

• What do I hope to gain by joining a group?