A cancer diagnosis can be a lonely and isolating experience. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, please know there are many national support programs available to help you through your journey all at no cost to you. Below, we will review the benefits of a peer support program and four programs that can provide you with help and support today.
Peer Support Benefits
In a peer support program, cancer patients are matched with other patients who have similar experiences. This can provide a much-needed sense of community and connection for anyone going through the emotional struggles that accompany a cancer diagnosis. Peer support programs offer so many more benefits for cancer patients, including:
- Connecting with others who understand what they are going through. This can be invaluable for patients who feel isolated or overwhelmed.
- Building a support network of people who can offer practical and emotional assistance.
- Sharing stories and feeling heard. This can be so therapeutic and empowering.
Finding a Peer Support Program
If you are interested in finding a peer support program, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will want to find a program that is specific to your type of cancer. This will ensure that you are matched with people who have similar experiences. Additionally, you will want to find a program that offers a variety of ways to connect whether by phone, video or email. This will ensure that the program is personalized to your needs and the way that you best communicate. Finally, you will want to find a program that meets your specific and unique needs. There are many different types of peer support programs available, so it is important to find one that is right for you. Read on for three free peer support programs to help you after a cancer diagnosis:
Four Free Peer Support Programs
1. Cancer Support Community
The Cancer Support Community Helpline offers a free online peer support group called the Living Room that’s facilitated by a licensed counselor. Services available include short-term counseling and emotional assistance for patients and families dealing with cancer. For more about the free online support group, visit, https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/cancer-support-helpline or call (888)793-9355 9AM-9PM M-F EST for immediate assistance.
2. Cancer Hope Network
Free one-on-one mentoring and support services for cancer patients and their families in the USA. The Cancer Hope Network has hundreds of mentors who understand what you’re going through and want to help. To get matched to a volunteer mentor, complete this online form https://cancerhopenetwork.org/patient-and-caregiver-support/.
3. Imerman Angels
Free peer support for cancer patients and their families via telephone, email, video chat, and face-to-face options. Per the website, “These 1–on–1 relationships inspire hope and offer the chance to ask personal questions and receive support from someone who is uniquely familiar with the experience.” To find out more or request a mentor, please visit https://imermanangels.org/get-support/.
4. Friend for Life Cancer Support Network
A network of cancer survivors who provide free one-on-one support to cancer patients and their families. Matches are customized based on similar diagnoses, treatment, as well as life circumstances, and values. To submit a request for help, call (866) 374-3634 or visit https://www.friend4life.org/get-matched/.
Help is Available Today
Cancer can be a difficult journey, but you don’t have to go through it alone. There are many different types of support programs available, including peer support programs. Peer support programs offer many benefits including the opportunity to connect with others who understand what you’re going through, the chance to build a supportive network, and the chance to share your story and be heard. There are many different types of peer support programs available, so it is important to find one that is right for you. We hope these programs will provide a match. If you need any assistance in finding a program that meets all of your needs, please reach out and we will be happy to help you. For more free peer support programs, please check out our national listings here. ❤️
Free Cancer-Specific Programs
For no-cost cancer-specific programs, please visit this section.
I found your site looking for help for my sister. I wish I knew about these programs when I got breast cancer.
Charmaine, thank you for helping your sister get the resources she needs. We are so very sorry to hear about your own diagnosis. Please know that these programs and services are available even after diagnosis and treatment. If you need any help or support at all, please reach out to the programs above for assistance. Also, we have more programs available just for breast cancer patients here.
Do you have support programs for lung cancer patients?
Jeff, thank you for your visit today and your question. All of these programs have volunteers that are matched based on diagnosis. In addition, please visit our lung cancer resources page for more help just for lung cancer patients. Our best to you.