I have breast cancer. How can I find a support group?

Many women with breast cancer find it helpful to talk with others who have cancer. Several organizations offer special programs for women with breast cancer. Women who have had the disease serve as trained volunteers. They may talk with or visit women with breast cancer, provide information, and lend emotional support. They often share their experiences with breast cancer treatment, breast reconstruction, and recovery.

Doctors, nurses, or hospital social workers may have information about support groups, such as their location, size, type, and how often they meet. Most hospitals have social services departments that give information about cancer support programs. Many newspapers also carry a special health supplement with information about where to find support groups.

The NCI fact sheet National Organizations That Offer Services to People With Cancer and Their Families lists several organizations that can provide information about support groups. This fact sheet is available online. You can also order a copy from the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). Some of these organizations have information on their Web sites about contacting support groups.

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