Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with pulmonary fibrosis for some time, joining a support group can be beneficial to you, your family and caregivers. Support groups allow members to share their experiences and concerns with others in like circumstances in a safe environment. Support groups often offer speakers from the medical and pharmaceutical communities on the latest in medical technology.
The common experience among members of a support group often means they have similar feelings, worries, everyday problems, treatment decisions or treatment side effects. Participating in a group provides you with an opportunity to be with people who are likely to have a common purpose and likely to understand one another.
Benefits of participating in a support group may include:
· Feeling less lonely, isolated or judged
· Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue
· Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
· Improving skills to cope with challenges
· Staying motivated to manage chronic conditions or stick to treatment plans
· Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
· Improving understanding of a disease and your own experience with it
· Getting practical feedback about treatment options
· Learning about health, economic or social resources
The common experience among members of a support group often means they have similar feelings, worries, everyday problems, treatment decisions or treatment side effects. Participating in a group provides you with an opportunity to be with people who are likely to have a common purpose and likely to understand one another.
Benefits of participating in a support group may include:
· Feeling less lonely, isolated or judged
· Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue
· Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
· Improving skills to cope with challenges
· Staying motivated to manage chronic conditions or stick to treatment plans
· Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
· Improving understanding of a disease and your own experience with it
· Getting practical feedback about treatment options
· Learning about health, economic or social resources