2008 Press Releases

The Cancer Centers at Saint Barnabas Medical Center Offer a Variety of Support Groups

Livingston, N.J. -- A diagnosis of cancer propels many people into a world of unfamiliar and perhaps frightening emotions.  It is not unusual to experience fear, confusion, anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and anger.  At times, some people may find it difficult to sleep, eat, concentrate or even make decisions. These emotions, as well as a myriad of others, are common and normal.  They may come and go.  They may be experienced mildly or intensely. 

If you are feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or treatment, a support group can help you to feel less alone. Support groups offer an opportunity for individuals to meet with others who are coping with cancer in their lives.  Many patients and their family members find it beneficial to share their experiences in a support group environment, because group members readily understand the challenges cancer presents.  The group can provide a safe place for mutual support.

"A support group connects you with others who understand what you are going through," says Angela McCabe, L.C.S.W., O.S.W.-C., Director of Psychosocial Support Services and Community Outreach, at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. "The groups we offer can help people to share their thoughts and feelings in a warm and accepting environment. This can often lessen feelings of isolation, diminish sad and depressed feelings and learn different coping techniques."

Support groups offer a variety of benefits:

• They provide valuable information. Through participation in groups, people can increase their knowledge of the latest treatments and techniques.
• They teach coping skills. The information and advice that groups provide can assist in the management of specific symptoms.
• They offer a place to share common concerns. People who are going through similar experiences can give encouragement and support.
• They provide emotional support. Groups are a place to identify and express stressful feelings. They can help to improve mood and decrease psychological distress.
• They provide affirmation and advocacy. Groups serve as a source of validation and can offer avenues to promote health care.
• They restore feelings of hope by reducing loneliness and creating a feeling of connection. Hope renews a sense that life is worth living.
• They help individuals to regain a sense of control. As a result of group discussions, the individual can decide what steps to take to address his or her situation.

The Cancer Centers of Saint Barnabas offer a number of support groups, free of charge, designed to address the needs of individuals with various forms of cancer at different stages of illness.  Because a cancer diagnosis affects the entire family, groups are available for patients, their adult family and friends. Groups are led by licensed professionals.

The following is a list of support groups offered by The Cancer Centers at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. For further information, including the date, time and location of meetings please call either 973-322-2668 or 973-322-8405.

·         Breast Cancer Support Group- Day and Evening

·         “US TOO” Prostate Cancer Support Group

·         Family and Friends Support Group

·         Beyond Primary Cancer Support Group

·         Starting Chemotherapy- What To Expect

·         Expressive Arts Group

·         Post Treatment Support Group

Date: November 12, 2008

Saint Barnabas Contact:  Samantha Anton, 973-322-5425

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