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4. Emotional Support For Caregivers & Patient

The mental and emotional stress of living with cancer and undergoing treatment can be a serious challenge for both patients and caregivers—sometimes leading to greater problems in the long term. In 2008, the National Institute of Health set a new standard of care that includes psychosocial support through all stages of treatment. Caring for yourself emotionally is one of the most important things you can do to support yourself during and after a cancer experience.

Find a local Support Group

    • DC Young Adult Cancer Community
      Young adults with all types of cancer, being treated anywhere in the DC metro area. This group meets monthly at Smith Center, with support from Cancer Support Community, George Washington University Hospital/Medical Faculty Associates, Hope Connections for Cancer Support, Howard University Hospital, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Life with Cancer, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, Nueva Vida, Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, Washington Cancer Institute at Medstar Washington Hospital Center, Young Survival Coalition (DC Chapter).
    • Howard University Cancer Center S.E.E.D.S. Cancer Support Group
      Support, Education, Encouragement, and Determination to Succeed. This is a support group for current and former cancer patients that provides a space to share experiences and a forum to talk with professionals about all aspects of the cancer experience.
    • Support at Georgetown Lombardi Cancer Center
      Sessions focused on bereavement, caregivers, appearance-related treatment side effects, women with cancer, and type-specific cancers.
    • The GW Cancer Institute
      Free support groups at George Washington University Medical Center & GW Medical Faculty Associates. Specialized groups include: active treatment, spirituality, children of cancer patients, caregiver, young adult, and some type-specific sessions.
    • Providence Hospital 
      Monthly support groups as well as programs including Look Good Feel Better and Reach to Recovery.
    • Sibley Memorial Hospital Cancer Center 
      Variety of support services and programs including coping Skills for women who are newly diagnosed, after-treatment transition workshop; advanced breast cancer support, partnering program.
    • Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
      Two Breast Cancer Support Groups are available: one for Stages I and II breast cancer and one for Stages III and IV breast cancer. Call 301.295.6360. See website for eligibility.
    • Washington Cancer Institute, Washington Hospital Center 
      Free support groups: General Support Group & Lifestyle Support Group.
    • Life With Cancer Support Groups in Fairfax, VA 
    • Hope Connections for Cancer Support in Bethesda, MD

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