By
Advocacy ActionLaunching a Support Group
With these steps as a guide, you'll be on the way to creating your own group
The power of psychosocial support for cancer survivors has been welldocumented. Among their many benefits, support groups can decreaseanxiety and create a sense of community. Telephone and online groupsare great options, but for some survivors nothing can take the place ofsharing stories and experiences face-to-face.
Many cancersurvivors have difficulty finding support groups in their areas, andmany express a desire to attend a group specific to their type ofcancer. No support group in your area? Consider starting one. It takesdedication and perseverance but can be an extremely rewardingexperience. Here are 10 tips to help you get started.
1. Make a commitment.
Leadinga local support group is rewarding but demands time and energy.Consider pairing with others to co-lead the group. Their assistance andsupport may ensure your group’s success.
2. Identify your audience.
Thosecurrently in treatment? Those who have finished treatment? Friends,family members and caregivers? All of the above? Be clear from thestart why your group is forming and whom you’d like to attend.
3. Determine the group’s objectives.
Contactleaders of existing support groups for advice. Brainstorm with yourco-leaders to develop topics for your group members to discuss. Decidewhere, when and how often you will meet, any supplies you will need,and your specific goals. Set priorities and delegate responsibilities.
4. Build a local network.
Spreadthe word about your group by posting notices at doctors’ offices,churches, community centers, on the internet and wherever else youmight reach your target audience.
5. Provide information.
Contactorganizations specializing in cancer to obtain educational materialsfor your group. Circulate a sign-up sheet at each meeting, distributecontact information and provide a written reminder about the group’snext meeting.
6. Be adaptable.
If you haveselected a particular topic to discuss at a meeting but the attendeesare clearly interested in talking about something else, go with it.Each group will form an identity, and the facilitators must be flexible.
7. Meet consistently.
Keepyour meeting at the same place, day and time. Have your meeting even ifother members do not attend. It can require patience to form adedicated group.
8. Give yourself time.
Itmay take at least two months for your group to get going. Members maycome and go in the beginning, but if you keep at it, you willeventually have a small core group that always attends.
9. Keep it relevant.
Keep the discussion on track with your goals so that members stay involved.
10. Ask for help when needed.
Knowyour limitations. It can be a challenge to maintain cohesion andinclusion in a group. Members may require more help than you canprovide. Anticipate such difficulties and know where to turn forassistance and direction.