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Facing a cancer diagnosis may be the most stressful thing that you experience in your life. Feelings of fear, uncertainty, and anger may be overwhelming some days. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Others are going through similar journeys, and you may just find that you can help each other through it.

Over and over again, studies have shown that support groups can have numerous benefits for cancer patients, and most members of support groups report lower stress levels, less feelings of isolation, and better overall health and wellbeing. Dr. Carrie utilizes the power of support groups within her treatment methodology because she knows how impactful it can be for all involved. Let’s take a closer look at just how and why it works.

The Benefits of Support Groups During Cancer Treatment

Humans are social creatures for a reason. When we team up, we have a better chance of survival, not to mention a richer experience along the way. In support groups, we share our own challenges, discuss emotional, spiritual, and physical wellbeing, and offer empathy and companionship for each other. Here are some specific benefits reported by participants:

• Find coping techniques for practical day-to-day challenges.
• Confront and unpack fears that you face.
• Cope with symptoms and side effects of treatment.
• Have peer support and stop feeling so alone.
• Learn more about what to expect from the road ahead.

How We Approach Support Groups

Cancer support groups are widespread, thanks to their practicality and proven efficacy. However, there are many different ways to conduct and organize group counseling. Some groups are categorized according to the different diagnoses. Others are designated not for cancer patients themselves, but for family members and loved ones. Some are peer-led and largely communal. Others are directed by a professional who enables the conversation and offers experienced insights.

Dr. Carrie’s program gathers patients together by virtue of their similarity in seeking out an alternative approach to cancer care. By gathering with other patients, you not only have the chance to connect with those who are going through similar diagnoses and challenges, but also those within your area who are seeking self-healing and self-care to manage their cancer diagnosis. Together, we work on the Six Steps to Self-Healing, learn Ayurvedic lifestyle techniques to balance and nurture ourselves, do yoga and meditation geared toward cancer patients and their physical needs, process our emotions that result from the roller coaster ride of cancer, and support each other unconditionally. Our group program is called Life Spark United, and we welcome individuals dealing with cancer anywhere on their journeys, whether you are currently undergoing conventional treatment, you have decided to suspend or forego a traditional approach, or you are finished with your treatment and would like some additional support.

Embracing the Journey

We often say that cancer is the start of a journey. While to many, it may seem like a hard road fraught with pain and heartache, we know that it can also be a rare opportunity to reflect, focus on what’s truly important, and make lasting changes in our ways of life. Our group program allows us to have powerful conversations that help us find gratitude and peace in our journey, despite the obstacles in our path.

Are you ready to find a new perspective on your cancer journey? Contact us to learn more about our group program and individualized appointments.