how to find support services during breast cancer treatment
In Australia 1 in 7 people are diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. There is no doubt that this experience is life-changing and brings on a whole new set of challenges that victims must manage. Support groups are a platform that allows victims to share experiences, interact and form connections with people who have shared similar experiences. These relationships enable victims to manage an extremely difficult process more easily.
Via hospital
The hospital where a victim is receiving treatment is a great place to start when looking for a support group. Hospital support groups are especially easily accessible during treatment. In saying this, these types of support groups typically cater to general cancer rather than breast cancer specifically.
Via Social media
Social media is a great way to access a variety of support groups through different platforms. These support groups are readily accessible and victims can commit to different platforms simultaneously at their own discretion to find a group that suits their needs. Online platforms include
Facebook groups
Instagram accounts
Blogs
Chat forums
Via Breast Cancer Network Australia
Australian charities such as Breast Cancer Network Australia act as a hub for victims to seek appropriate groups for their chemotherapy. These platforms act as a network for victims to find online, face to face, phone service and government program support groups. Victims can also specify further by service area and features.
It is important to keep in mind that all support groups have different dynamics, leadership styles and conversation styles so victims must find groups that suit their personality and condition. In saying this, not all victims seek out support groups. Some people might find they have an appropriate support system at home or have not reached a physical or mental place to participate in a group.
One thing we know is, this is not something you have to face alone, here are some of our favourite support groups you can reach out to:
Breast Cancer Network Australia - Online Network
Breast Cancer Support Network Australia - My Care Kit
Cancer Institute Australia - Sister’s Cancer Support Group
Cancer Australia - Cancer Support Groups