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