Cancer can be more than a physical disease as it touches the deepest fears of patients and their families. This information can lessen the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. Accept help when offered and reach out for the support you need.

Having the support of others while going through cancer treatment can be important to the healing process. Naturally, most patients first turn to their family and friends for encouragement and emotional support. But something quite valuable can be gained by participating in a group with people who are undergoing a similar situation. Many patients have found great strength and encouragement through support groups.

A mutual support group can make a significant contribution in restoring a sense of well-being. When the group networks with a caring medical team, the patient and his/her family can more readily move toward recovery despite any limitations of cancer.

Each individual will have different needs. What is meaningful to one person may be meaningless to another. It is helpful to discuss your concerns - whether it is to a friend, family member, or spiritual advisor; in a support group of people going through a similar situation; or to yourself through a journal.

I hope you find these direct links to the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center's Support and Resources section helpful.

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• Inspirations
• Journaling
• Life After Treatment
• Living Wills
• Movement & Exercise
• Sexuality
• Caregivers
• Complementary Medicine
• Finance and Insurance Issues
• Healing Environments