Numerous studies show that support groups play a key role in developing coping skills for those who have been impacted by cancer. Participants report that the Top 3 Benefits of Joining a Support Group are:
- You don’t feel isolated and alone in your cancer experience.
- You have the freedom to speak about your feelings and learn ways to work through them.
- You gain valuable information from others, such as ways to cope with
the side effects of treatment or managing your grief.
Gilda’s Club Westchester (GCW) offers a range of support groups, such as our Living with Cancer Group – a weekly group for adults who are diagnosed with cancer and are in treatment; our Caregiver Group – an ongoing weekly support group for family members and friends of people living with cancer; our Children and Teens groups, and a host of other valuable groups that offer specific support depending on your background and interest. Among these are:
- Breast Cancer Group
- Multiple Myeloma Group
- Post-Treatment Group
- Young Women with Breast Cancer Group
- Pica y Platica (Hispanic Group)
- Sistah’s Circle
- Living with Loss Group
- Next Steps Bereavement Group
GCW’s virtual support groups have become a key resource since the onset of the pandemic. Members comment that ‘finding a community is the most important benefit of group participation’. For example, GCW offers support groups for caregivers to help them find a balance between caregiving and self-care through discussion, as well as recommendations and support from fellow members.
Each support group is facilitated by an experienced, licensed mental health professional, and provides ongoing emotional and social support. For anyone impacted by cancer, including a cancer-related loss. Advanced registration is required for all support groups. For more information on support groups at GCW visit our website or call 914-644-8844.