Support for Caregivers

Tips for the Caregiver | Basic Responsibilities of the Caregiver | Coping for Caregivers | Advanced Care at the End of Life

When you’re caring for someone who is seriously ill, your own needs tend to take a back seat to the patient’s needs.  This is a common problem that most caregivers face.  However, taking care of yourself should be equally as important as taking care of your sick loved one.  When you’re unable to function properly – both physically and mentally – the quality of care goes down and your loved one suffers. 

Maintaining your sanity should be a number one priority during your role as caregiver.  Always remember that you are not alone.  If family members are unwilling to provide you with support and encouragement, there are other avenues to which you can turn.

Support Groups

Individuals have been turning to support groups for decades, seeking help and guidance with all sorts of issues from weight loss to alcoholism.  Support groups have a proven track record and can be indispensable to the overburdened care giver.

These days, thanks to technology, you don’t even need to step out of the house to join a support group.  Many are available online via the internet.  However, most experts suggest that caregivers take some time outside the home if possible to visit with other caregivers facing similar responsibilities.  But, if time does not permit this, joining an online support group is better than not joining one at all.

Support groups can offer:

• A great source for information sharing on a particular disease and its treatment.
• A safe and understanding forum for sharing your frustrations and anger.
• A social outlet for a busy caregiver who is house-bound most of the time.
• The reassurance that you’re not alone; that others are facing similar burdens to yours.

To find an appropriate support group for caretakers of mesothelioma patients or cancer patients in general, contact:

• the hospital at which your loved one is being treated.
• the American Cancer Society
• your counselor or clergyperson

To locate an online support group, type the words “cancer support” or “mesothelioma support” on your search engine and you’ll likely find a number of options, including:

• www.oncochat.org
• www.thewellnesscommunity.org
• www.gildasclub.org