Mesothelioma Support
A solid support system that addresses the importance of the emotional side of mesothelioma is essential for people diagnosed with this rare, aggressive cancer. Patients, caregivers, family and friends often find comfort through participation in mesothelioma support groups, where they learn effective coping skills and meet others who understand what they are going through.
While many patients and caregivers find all of the emotional care they need from support groups, others find they need care beyond what a support group can offer. Those include individual therapy and medications for anxiety or depression. Doctors and mental health advocates provide that support. They help mesothelioma patients and loved ones recognize signs of distress and provide tools they need to care for them in ways that chemotherapy and radiation therapy don't touch.
If you'd like to learn more about mesothelioma or wish to raise awareness about this rare cancer, check out some of the resources listed below:
Financial Support
Treating any cancer is costly, but the rarity of mesothelioma often means increased treatment expenses. Fortunately, financial aid is available through government assistance, charities or legal options.
To learn more about financial options, speak to one of our Patient Advocates by calling (800) 615-2270.
Veterans Assistance
United States Veterans make up a significant portion of those afflicted with mesothelioma. Because asbestos exposure was common in the military, Veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for financial assistance.
Support from Charities
For patients and families struggling financially, aid is offered from a variety of charitable organizations. Some provide money to help pay for treatments, while others provide services that help defray some of the hidden costs a patient may incur, like travel expenses to the nearest mesothelioma specialist and treatment facility if one does not exist locally.
Support for Handling Pain &Treatment Side Effects
Pain is naturally associated with developing mesothelioma. Some of the earliest signs of mesothelioma progression include pain in the chest and abdomen. However, your mesothelioma doctor can help you manage your pain effectively and increase your quality of life. If you're receiving treatment and side effects are present, click on the following links that apply to you:
Emotional Support
There are a number of feelings a person recently diagnosed with mesothelioma is likely to experience, including stress, anger, confusion, denial, depression and more. We provide patients and caregivers alike with a substantial number of resources so they can feel comfort in knowing they're not alone.
Discover ways to cope with the Emotional Side of Mesothelioma
Joining Support Groups
Some people with mesothelioma elect to join support groups so they can share and discuss their feelings with others in similar situations. Caregivers have emotional needs, as well, and many find that support groups address their unique needs and help them cope.
Studies have shown that people with terminal cancers who participate in support groups have higher survival rates and increased quality of life.
Find out more about the benefits of joining Support Groups for Mesothelioma.
Caring for a Mesothelioma Patient
Mesothelioma caregivers need a support network of their own, as helping a friend or loved one with mesothelioma can be equally overwhelming and a lot of work. Some of the responsibilities involved might include shopping for groceries, cooking, cleaning, paying bills and driving to doctor appointments.
Find out more about the benefits of joining Support Groups for Mesothelioma.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm contemplating taking a vacation abroad with my family. What do I need to consider before making travel plans?
Learn how to get Support When Traveling.
After my family doctor diagnosed me with mesothelioma, I went to a specialist who treats people with my disease. I learned a lot from my first visit, but I still have unanswered questions. What didn't my doctor tell me?
Discover the 15 Questions Your Mesothelioma Doctor Didn't Answer.
My symptoms are worsening and my prognosis is poor. What important decisions do I need to start thinking about as I near my final days?
Ready our Assisted Living page to learn if this is something that is right for you.
Find out what End-of-life Decisions to consider and how to prepare.
Find out if Hospice Care is an option you should consider.
If you'd like to stay up-to-date with some of the most recent news in research, treatment and events for mesothelioma, sign up for our free monthly newsletter. The Mesothelioma Center's email newsletter contains reviews about successful treatments, survivor stories, asbestos exposure information and much more.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society. (2011, September 20). Anxiety, Fear, and Depression: A cancer diagnosis can affect your emotional health [Fact Sheet]. Retrieved from http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/cid/documents/webcontent/002816-pdf.pdf
- Cancer Symptoms.org – Symptoms of Cancer Treatment. (2011). Retrieved fromhttp://www.cancersymptoms.org/symptoms-of-cancer-treatment
- Clay, R, and Suinn, R. (2001, March 1). Mind Over Cancer. Psychology Today. Retrieved from http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200003/mind-over-cancer
- Family Caregiver Alliance. (n.d.). End-of-Life Decision-Making. Retrieved from http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=401
- National Alliance for Caregiving. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.caregiving.org/
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© 2012 The Mesothelioma Center |
Last Modified Thursday, January 19th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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