- 2 min read
How can support groups help?
It’s important to remember you’re not alone. You can get support and advice from men and their partners who have been in the same position as you wherever you are in your prostate cancer experience. This can provide a powerful way of managing the impact of prostate cancer on you and your loved ones.
Every man will have different ways of dealing with prostate cancer and need different levels of support. Support from your partner, family members, a friend or a prostate cancer support group can help you cope with the challenges of prostate cancer.
Joining a prostate cancer support group can help you experience:
- A sense of belonging
- A sense of community
- Feeling as though you are not alone
- Feeling accepted and supported
- Empathy
- Feeling understood
- Feeling as though you are being cared for
- Feeling safe to express your feelings and fears
Many people find that joining a support group helps because it puts them in touch with people who know exactly what they are going through. A supportive network is important – support groups bring together men and women affected by prostate cancer.
How do you find support groups?
There are established prostate cancer support groups all around Australia. Find a prostate cancer support group near you at www.pcfa.org.au/support/list-of-support-groups
You can also join our Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia Support Groups Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/pcsgs/
This page provides a way for members of the PCFA support groups and others impacted by prostate cancer to come together and share their experiences.
You can also call us on 1800 22 00 99 for support and advice.
Find a prostate cancer support group near you
Are there any special purpose support groups?
There are support groups specifically for those with varying needs or requirements, including:
- Advanced Prostate Cancer
- Carers & Partners
- Culturally & Linguistically Diverse
- LGBTIQA+ Community
- Sport & Fitness
- Younger men (under 50)
You can find out more about these groups here: www.pcfa.org.au/support/list-of-support-groups/special-purpose-support-groups/
Other support for LGBTIQA+ people and communities throughout Australia
- The National LGBTI Health Alliance supports LGBTIQA+ people and communities throughout Australia and the world, free from stigma and discrimination. 02 7209 6301 www.lgbtihealth.org.au
- Thorne Harbour Health: support for LGBTIQA+ people and communities. 03 9865 6700 or www.thorneharbour.org
- QLife: anonymous and free LGBTI peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. 1800 184 527 or www.qlife.org.au
Key Points
- Supports groups can provide you with a sense of community, practical and fun support and help you feel understood
- There are established prostate cancer support groups all around Australia
- You can also join the PCFA online community
- There are also many support groups for people with specific requirements, such as the LGBTIQA+ Community, younger men or people who are culturally or linguistically diverse
