Mesothelioma Help

Types of Support for Mesothelioma Treatment

Mesothelioma support has become increasingly available. With online resources expanding support options, getting mesothelioma cancer help can be just a click away.

However, many patients feel that cancer support is not for them and that getting mesothelioma help is unnecessary. With the many types of mesothelioma support options available today, all patients have the opportunity to find a support option that is right for them.

Treatment Support

Finding and paying for treatment can feel overwhelming. Due to the poor prognosis, treatment options are oftentimes limited, and getting mesothelioma help is challenging since the condition is rare.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a valuable resource for mesothelioma help for patients seeking to understand the health care system.

On the ACS website, patients can find:

• Directories of medical professionals
• Treatment center locations
• Information on paying for treatment
• Guidance on how to choose a doctor and hospital
• Clinical trial options
• Advice on seeking a second opinion

Emotional Support

Many mesothelioma patients do not believe they need emotional support.

The condition is caused by exposure to asbestos, which was common in the military. Our country’s bravest may not wish to admit they are scared. However, emotional support is a very important part of a patient’s treatment plan.

The National Cancer Institute suggests:

“Just as cancer affects your physical health, it can bring up a wide range of feelings you’re not used to dealing with…your friends and family members may share some of the same feelings. If you’re comfortable, share this information with them.” 

Without seeking mesothelioma help for emotional support, patients may experience:

• Overwhelming feelings
• Denial
• Anger
• Fear and worry
• Stress and anxiety
• Sadness and depression
• Guilt
• Loneliness

Caregiver Support

The role of a mesothelioma caregiver is not an easy one. Caregivers often find it difficult to balance taking care of a loved one with their own health and responsibilities. They may also feel that their needs are not as important as the patient’s needs.

There are many mesothelioma caregiver support resources available that make the role of caregiving easier to handle. The most important thing to understand is that caregivers cannot do it alone.

Financial Support

Mesothelioma treatment can be more expensive than patients and their families can afford.

Compensation may be available for patients through:

• Asbestos trust funds
• Mesothelioma lawsuits
• Benefits from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA)
• Workers’ Compensation
• Private insurance

Additionally, the ACS website offers in-depth information on:

• Managing the cost of cancer treatment
• Understanding health insurance
• Working during and after treatment

Mesothelioma is most often caused by exposure to asbestos. Although the dangers of asbestos weren’t well-known until the 1980s, asbestos companies knew and hid the risks of the mineral for decades — and now these companies are paying the price.

Speaking with a qualified mesothelioma law firm may lead to financial compensation that can be used to get mesothelioma help.

Support Groups

People living with mesothelioma may greatly benefit from the real-world help they receive from others in the same situation.

Joining mesothelioma support groups has been shown to:

• Improve confidence to overcome difficult situations or side effects
• Help explain treatment options
• Provide a deeper understanding of a mesothelioma diagnosis
• Lead patients to new research that may help their chance of survival
• Improve overall health outcomes

Mesothelioma support groups bring people together and provide a safe place to exchange stories, share concerns, and build enough confidence to face whatever the future brings.

Community Support

Seeking community support can make some mesothelioma patients feel uncomfortable. Patients may not want to ask their family, friends, and neighbors for help out of fear of being a burden. However, it is often just a matter of finding the courage to ask.

Loved ones usually take on different roles to provide mesothelioma help. If family members don’t offer help, or if their help is not sufficient, people may turn to a circle of friends, church members, and neighbors.

Mesothelioma Help Resources

There are many types of mesothelioma support options that patients and their loved ones can access. With some research, most people can find the type of mesothelioma help that is right for them.

Phone Support Groups

Since the condition is so rare, it can be tricky for patients to find in-person mesothelioma support.

Phone support groups can be a great option to connect with others regardless of location. The groups usually talk by phone on a regular basis through a conference line.

One example is the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, which hosts phone support groups for patients, caregivers, and surviving spouses. Patients or loved ones can call (703) 879-3822 to register.

Further, the Cancer Support Community has counselors available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM Eastern Time. Call (888) 793-9355 to talk with a licensed cancer counselor.

Online and Facebook Support Groups

Online groups, including those found on Facebook, are often the easiest way to connect with other mesothelioma patients.

This option is ideal for those looking for mesothelioma support because it offers the distance and anonymity many need to openly share their concerns.

Online support is also convenient since there are ongoing and immediate conversations that are not possible with in-person or phone support. Groups can be located by searching on Facebook.

Facebook support groups examples include:

• Mesothelioma Warriors Survivors
• Mesothelioma Caregiver Conversations
• Mesothelioma Loss Support

Additionally, the American Lung Association offers free online support communities through their Inspire.com resource.

Private Support

Some people seeking mesothelioma help are not comfortable sharing in any type of group setting.

For those seeking individual support, some options are:

• Professional support from a therapist or counselor (doctors can often give referrals)
• Comprehensive cancer centers may offer private mesothelioma support
• Cancer Hope Network matches patients with support volunteers

Mesothelioma Support Groups

Reputable cancer organizations are often the best place to begin looking for a mesothelioma support option that is a good fit.

Organizations that offer mesothelioma help are:

• American Cancer Society (ACS) provides 24/7 support and offers services such as:
  • Rides to treatment
  • Lodging
  • Online community
• The American Lung Association can assist with local support options
• The National Cancer Institute offers quality information for mesothelioma patients

A mesothelioma diagnosis introduces unique hardships and obstacles, but emotional, financial, and treatment support make navigating this challenging time a little easier. Whether you were recently diagnosed — or you’re the loved one of a late mesothelioma patient — mesothelioma help is available.