Breast Cancer Support Groups

Y-ME’s network of support groups across the country is another way we assist patients in need of peer support.  Support groups provide breast cancer patients and survivors with mutual emotional support while navigating the various stages of breast cancer – from initial diagnosis to survivorship.

Over the years, research has demonstrated the importance of social support on health outcomes for people living with cancer.  Social support has been shown to improve one’s ability to cope with their cancer, aids in a survivor’s adherence to various types of treatment, and more specifically, support groups fill an important gap for those lacking social support (Bloom, 2008).

Led by trained facilitators, Y-ME support groups provide peer-to-peer support, information and empowerment in a safe, welcoming, and organized setting.  Most support groups are general in nature, but a few focus on specific topics like lymphedema and metastatic breast cancer.  Support group members take part in discussions regarding their experience with and questions and concerns about breast cancer, as well as coping strategies while offering support and encouragement to others.  Overall, Y-ME support groups aspire to provide a community of peers offering understanding, hope, and healing.

The network consists of groups in Illinois, Connecticut, Arizona, Oklahoma, California, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. 

Over 2,000 women took part in our support groups last year.  Check to see if there are support groups in your area: