Where to Find Support When You Have Vulvar Cancer
It’s easier to deal with your feelings when you learn more about your cancer. It’s also easier when you get support from other people. Doctors, nurses, and other members of your healthcare team can answer questions. It can help to talk with friends and relatives. Meeting with others who have had cancer can also help. Talking with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy may also help.
Recognizing your feelings makes it easier to cope with them. And coping may ease some of your symptoms and side effects. Pain, for instance, gets worse with stress. Many cancer patients attend support groups. There, they share what they’ve learned about cancer and its treatments. Here are some ways you can find support.
- Talk with a nurse or social worker at your hospital or clinic. Ask them to suggest a local or national support group. Groups may offer emotional support and information. Some also offer financial aid, transportation, home care, or other services.
- Call the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service. The number is 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6236). It has information on resources.
- Call the American Cancer Society. The number is 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345). The ACS helps patients and their families.