How Can a Mesothelioma Support Group Help Me?
Mesothelioma support groups help patients, as well as their family, caregivers, and friends, better manage the mental and emotional aspects of a cancer diagnosis.
They’re a safe place to share your feelings and experiences and learn from others who can relate.
Mesothelioma support groups can provide you with:
- Emotional validation: Group support can provide a confidential and judgment-free space to share what you’re going through with other mesothelioma patients and their families.
- Healthy coping skills: Hearing how other people are working through their struggles can give you a new perspective on managing your own.
- Practical information: Support group meetings are usually led by social workers, registered nurses, or other professionals who can provide you with trusted information on treatment, respite care, mental health services, and other useful resources.
- Social connection: Joining a support group can help you feel less isolated and more connected to others who are also processing the impacts of a mesothelioma diagnosis, either as a patient or a loved one.
Get our Free Survivors Guide to learn more about what’s helped other patients and their families find mesothelioma support.
Types of Mesothelioma Support Groups
There is a wide range of in-person and online groups where you can get support for mesothelioma.
In-Person Mesothelioma Support Groups
A local support group is an excellent way to meet others who know what you’re going through. There are in-person mesothelioma support groups for both patients and their loved ones.
You can find local groups through:
- Mesothelioma cancer centers: Cancer centers with mesothelioma units often host support groups for patients and caregivers. Ask a member of your cancer care team what groups are available and when they meet. A hospital social worker can also direct you to other support communities in your area.
- The Cancer Support Community: This nonprofit network has 196 locations where patients can access professionally led support groups. You can search by city, state, or ZIP code to find a group near you.
- The National Cancer Information Center (NCIC): You can call the NCIC 24/7 at 1-800-227-2345 to get help locating a support group in your area.
“The only people who genuinely understand what you are going through are people who have experienced it themselves.”
Online Mesothelioma Support Groups
Online support groups offer a flexible choice for patients and caregivers who lack nearby in-person options, have busy schedules, or prefer meeting virtually.
These groups are hosted on platforms like Zoom or mesothelioma forums, allowing participants to connect, chat, or post on discussion boards.
Options for online cancer support groups include:
- Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation: The Meso Foundation regularly hosts virtual support groups led by survivors and medical experts. As of January 2025, it’s also recruiting mesothelioma caregivers for a new study that includes an online support group.
- CanCare: This resource offers three support groups hosted on Zoom for caregivers, survivors, and patients battling a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
- Cancer Survivors Network: Founded by the American Cancer Society (ACS), this peer-based platform lets you join discussion boards and get advice from the wider cancer support community.
- MyLifeLine®: This platform allows patients, caregivers, and loved ones to share insights, coping strategies, and inspiration. Licensed mental health professionals moderate themed discussion boards with topics ranging from grief support to treatment side effects.
No matter where you are, online mesothelioma support groups provide a vital source of connection, comfort, and guidance when you need it most.
Mesothelioma support groups allow you to connect with other patients, as well as their caregivers, family, and skilled medical experts. All of these people can offer advice to you and help make your cancer journey easier. View Transcript.
Duration: 1 min 13 sec
A mesothelioma diagnosis can leave you feeling overwhelmed and looking for help. Mesothelioma support groups offer a lifeline of understanding guidance and connection for both patients and caregivers. One of the key benefits of joining a support group is the opportunity to share experiences and gain valuable insights from others who are on a similar journey. Through open conversations you can learn about different treatment options, discover coping strategies and gain a fresh perspective on managing the challenges of mesothelioma. And the best part, there are a variety of support groups that meet online and in person ensuring accessibility and flexibility for everyone. Mesothelioma support groups aren’t just for patients, family members and caregivers can also find communities tailored to their unique situation whether you participate online or attend local meetings. You’ll find valuable emotional support and guidance to help you cope during this difficult time. At Mesothelioma Hope, we’re dedicated to supporting patients and their families throughout their cancer journey. Contact us today for personalized guidance on support groups and other free resources.
Peer Mentor Programs
Peer mentorship has become an increasingly popular type of mesothelioma support. Peer mentor programs allow you to connect individually with someone who’s been affected by mesothelioma, whether as a patient or caregiver.
Peer mentoring occurs one-on-one rather than in a large group format. You can meet with your mentor in person, virtually, or over the phone whenever it’s most convenient for you.
Some popular peer mentor programs include:
- 4th Angel: Founded by Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton after his battle with cancer, 4th Angel pairs cancer patients and survivors with others who know what they’re going through.
- Cancer Hope Network: This peer mentor program is available for cancer patients and caregivers and matches them based on location, similar life experiences, and other factors.
- Imerman Angels: This international support organization has matched more than 36,000 people impacted by cancer with a peer for personalized support and empathy.
- Meso Foundation Peer-to-Peer Support Program: This service allows patients and loved ones to speak to people who understand all the nuances of this particular cancer.
If you or a loved one are navigating a mesothelioma diagnosis, connecting with top doctors can make all the difference. Use our Free Doctor Match to find specialists who can provide the care and support you deserve.
How to Find the Right Mesothelioma Support Group
Finding the right mesothelioma support group depends on your needs and preferences. There are groups designed specifically for patients and mesothelioma survivors and other groups that offer family support.
Some may be larger groups or meet one-on-one (such as peer mentor programs) and may be held weekly or monthly. Support groups can meet in person and online. All of these factors will influence what the right support group looks like for you.
Our Patient Advocates can help you find the right support group by:
- Learning about your situation, schedule, and preferences
- Recommending local or online groups that meet your needs
- Connecting you with resources like peer mentor programs and respite care
- Helping you schedule and join your first meeting
We have over 25 years of experience helping people who are either facing a mesothelioma diagnosis or are caring for a loved one who is. Call our free mesothelioma helpline at (866) 608-8933 to speak with a Patient Advocate right now.
Other Mesothelioma Support Resources
Patients and loved ones can access other valuable support services in addition to mesothelioma support groups.
These include:
- Caregiver support: Being a mesothelioma caregiver can lead to stress and burnout, so it’s critical to get support by seeking outside help with daily activities and practicing self-care.
- Emotional support: Counseling and mental health services can help patients and loved ones cope with anxiety, depression, and the daily challenges of living with mesothelioma.
- Faith-based support: This type of support typically includes prayer, counseling, meditation, and spiritual guidance.
- Financial assistance: Many families affected by mesothelioma struggle to cover health care expenses, travel costs, and lost wages. Patients and caregivers can pursue financial compensation through asbestos claims, veterans benefits, and nonprofit organizations.
These resources can provide essential support to help you navigate the stresses of diagnosis, treatment, and daily life.
“Everybody has their own support system. Family support groups are great. Faith is very important to some people. I think having your own form of support is critical.“
Mesothelioma Support Organizations and Awareness Events
Patients and caregivers can find another form of support through community awareness events. Several annual fundraisers, races, and advocacy events unite people affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Learn more about these awareness events below.
Asbestos Awareness Weeks
In 2013, the U.S. Senate designated the first week in April as National Asbestos Awareness Week. This is a great time to advocate for Americans exposed to asbestos on the job or during their military service.
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) also celebrates Global Asbestos Awareness Week between April 1 and 7 each year.
Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference
The ADAO’s Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference is held every September.
The event is hosted in Washington, D.C., and streamed online, bringing dozens of world-renowned experts together to discuss mesothelioma prevention and treatment.
International Symposium on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
The International Symposium on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is a two-day conference started by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. It’s typically held every October.
The event highlights mesothelioma clinical trials and emerging treatments and allows patients, loved ones, caregivers, and family members to connect with top cancer experts. If you can’t attend in person, you can watch the full conference on demand for free.
Mesothelioma Awareness Day
Mesothelioma Awareness Day has been observed annually on September 26 since 2004.
The Meso Foundation uses this day to heighten public awareness of this cancer using social media and promotes third-party fundraising events nationwide that go toward research and treatment.
Miles for Meso 5K and 3K Fun Run/Walk
The Miles for Meso 5K and 3K Fun Run/Walk allows people of all ages to honor loved ones, advocate for patients with mesothelioma, and raise funds for awareness and research.
This annual event is sponsored by Simmons Hanly Conroy, a top mesothelioma law firm and the official legal partner of Mesothelioma Hope.
Get Support for Mesothelioma Today
A mesothelioma diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
In addition to the many support groups and online forums that are available to you, our caring Patient Advocates can offer personalized guidance to anyone impacted by this cancer.
You can count on us to provide:
- A listening ear
- Connections to support groups and peer mentors
- Resources for financial compensation
- Help with finding a doctor or respite care
Call (866) 608-8933 or get our Free Survivors Guide for dedicated support on your journey with mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Support FAQs
How do you help someone with mesothelioma?
Helping someone who has mesothelioma starts with understanding their needs.
You can:
- Be there to listen and offer emotional support.
- Help with everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, or driving them to appointments.
- Encourage them to see mesothelioma specialists for treatment.
- Research support services like financial aid, counseling, and support groups.
If you’re unsure where to start, Mesothelioma Hope offers free resources to guide you. Contact us today to learn more.
Is mesothelioma family support available?
Yes, families can access resources to help them cope with the emotional, financial, and practical challenges of mesothelioma.
Families often face significant stress as they care for a loved one with mesothelioma while balancing their own needs. Support services like counseling, peer mentors, and family-focused support groups provide a place to connect with others and gain helpful advice.
Online options also make it easier for busy families to access mesothelioma help and support no matter where they are.
What is mesothelioma supportive therapy?
Supportive therapy for mesothelioma helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
It can include:
- Breathing treatments to improve lung function
- Emotional and mental health support
- Pain management with medication or surgeries
- Physical therapy after treatment to maintain strength
Supportive therapy works alongside treatments like surgery and chemotherapy to help patients feel better day-to-day.
How do I find the best mesothelioma support group?
Consider your specific needs and look for specialized groups that match your situation. Some support groups focus on caregivers, while others provide emotional support for patients at different stages of treatment.
You can ask your doctor, social worker, or cancer treatment center for recommendations — they often have connections to trusted resources.
If you need help finding the right group, our Patient Advocates are ready to assist you. Call (866) 608-8933 to connect with us.
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