What You Need to Know about Brain Tumors

Living with a serious disease is not easy. Everyone involved faces many problems and challenges. Finding the strength to cope with these difficulties is easier when people have helpful information and support services.

The doctor can explain the disease and give advice about treatment, going back to work or school, or other activities. If patients want to discuss concerns about the future, family relationships, and finances, it may also help to talk with a nurse, social worker, counselor, or clergy member.

Friends and relatives who have had personal experience with cancer can be very supportive. Also, it helps many patients to meet and talk with other people who are facing problems like theirs. Cancer patients often get together in self-help and support groups, where they can share what they have learned about cancer and its treatment and about coping with the disease. In addition to groups for adults with cancer, special support groups for children or teens with cancer or for parents whose children have cancer are available in many cities. It's important to keep in mind, however, that each patient is different. Treatments and ways of dealing with cancer that work for one person may not be right for another--even if they both have the same kind of cancer. It's always a good idea to discuss the advice of friends and family members with the doctor.

Often, a social worker at the hospital or clinic can suggest local and national groups that will help with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care.

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