When facing a difficult health journey, whether it be cancer treatment or mental health challenges, a strong support system and connection with your community can significantly enhance a patient's healing process. The benefits of a support network encompass not only financial and practical needs but also social, emotional, spiritual, and psychological aspects of healing.
“Human beings are social creatures. Community support is a basic need that each and every one of us strive for in different and complex ways,” explains Austin Loukas, LCPC clinician for Northern Light Acadia Hospital. “As part of the healing process, it is important for people to feel welcome and connected to their community.”
Here are a few ways to help you or a loved one build that community and manage those connections:
Don’t be afraid to lean into support from family and friends
Kelsey Anderson, LCSW, medical oncology social worker for Northern Light Cancer Care emphasizes that "having a support system plays an integral role in helping patients get through diagnosis, treatment, and adjusting to life after." This support can come in many forms, such as neighbors or family members providing assistance with meals, transportation, or helping to clean. By addressing these needs, a support system can help patients navigate challenges during their healing journey.
Additionally, let the people in your life know how they can best support you through your health journey, and just as importantly, when you need that help. Recognizing that everyone is unique, Anderson explains that support may look different depending on the individual. She advises loved ones to check in with patients, respecting their preferences and comfort levels. As needs and wants may change throughout the healing process, communication and reassessment are essential to maintaining a strong support network.
Participate in support groups
Outside of family, friends and social supports, patients often benefit from the connection that support groups or peer-to-peer mentorship programs offer. “These opportunities offer patients the ability to connect with others who have been or are going through a similar diagnosis,” says Anderson. “We have heard from our patients, and caregivers, that sometimes it’s helpful to hear the learned experiences of others, while others just feel the connection alone, of having a shared diagnosis, is profound.”
Share your story
Being open about your healing journey may benefit more than you and your family, helping someone else feel less alone during their healing process. Your story could be the one that connects with them, encouraging them along the way. Maybe you could even inspire them to share their story weeks, months, or years down the road, helping someone else also find their voice on their journey.