Our world today is more connected than ever. While the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that fact by increasing our utilization of remote work, video conferencing, and digital communication, it also hindered our ability to communicate face-to-face with others.
Because we know that relationships and meaningful connections with others are paramount in an effective support network for cancer patients — including children — we have to learn how to navigate the changing climate. While one day, we may be able to meet in person again we — particularly the immunocompromised — must rely on digital avenues for support and socialization beyond our immediate circle.
Online support groups have been around for as long as the internet has existed. For parents of kids with cancer, cancer survivors, and the children facing cancer in the present, online support groups can be highly advantageous for one’s mental and emotional health — which in turn, can influence physical outcomes.
But what are the real benefits of engaging with online support groups for cancer patients and survivors?
3 Reasons to Engage in Online Support Groups
Studies show that we will see some 23.6 million new cancer cases by 2030. Even though cancer affects so many people, it can still be an isolating experience for many. We struggle with feelings of helplessness, loneliness, and fear as the future becomes more uncertain.
Support groups — especially online support groups — can help ease the burden of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Information Sharing
One of the greatest benefits of an online support group is the ability to share information from real experience. Patients, survivors, and caregivers can offer insight into different treatments, products, and habits that can help make managing cancer and its treatment that much more effective.
Survivors can recommend products, coping strategies, and treatment options that others may not know about. This benefits both parties. One receives valuable information while the other feels the pride and purpose of sharing much-needed, valuable information. This can be anything from post-op products and questions to ask to financial aid and camp and retreat opportunities. The sharing of information creates a sense of community while also allowing cancer survivors to feel like they can give back to the people who share their same struggles. It lends a sense of solidarity and purpose!
Emotional Support
Emotional support is absolutely necessary for cancer patients. In an online group, patients can find support and encouragement from other members — both those currently in treatment and those on the other side of their cancer fight. There are demonstrated self-esteem benefits as well. Because there is so much variation in types of diagnoses, age, and treatment plans, it can be challenging to find others that are going through the same struggles and treatments.
Online groups are beneficial in that they bring together a broad group of individuals from all over the world and all experience levels. Because of this, there are fewer barriers to reaching people who are dealing with the same types of cancer, side-effects from treatment, and emotional issues. This increased knowledge as well as the feeling of truly being in something together.
Accessibility
Perhaps the greatest benefit to online support groups is their accessibility. It used to be that in-person support groups could (and should) operate at specific times and places. This can be a barrier for cancer patients as they find their schedules to be busy and restricted. In fact, studies reflect low-retention rates in in-person support groups. This is only more true now! Expanding beyond your local circle, too, can allow you to identify and connect with others of the same age and diagnosis. This sense of shared experience at our fingertips. While an in-person group meeting may be limited by time, distance, and proximity, the internet offers
Where to Find Support
Finding the right support group for you, your child, and your family can be challenging. There are more than ever! Make sure you carefully read over any group rules and guidelines to ensure that it will be a safe and encouraging space.
Many cancer organizations do their best to connect survivors, patients, and their families with meaningful support:
We all need a strong team on our side so we can kick cancer together. As family, caretakers, and cancer patients, never be afraid to reach out to those who can support you — and understand — the most