Table of Contents Hodgkin's Disease Risk Factors Symptoms of Hodgkins Disease Diagnosis and Staging of Hodgkin's Disease Treatment of Hodgkin's Disease Hodgkins Disease Treatment - Getting a Second Opinion Preparing for Treatment of Hodgkin's Disease Methods of Treating Hodgkin's Disease Hodgkin's Disease Clinical Trials Side Effects of Hodgkin's Disease Treatment Radiation Therapy for Hodgkin's Disease Hodgkin's Disease Treatment - Chemotherapy Nutrition During Hodgkin's Disease Treatment Recovery and Outlook Hodgkin's Disease Followup Care Support for People with Hodgkin's Disease Keeping on top of Your Condition

Support for People with Hodgkin's Disease

Living with a serious disease is not easy. People with cancer and those who care about them face many problems and challenges. Coping with these problems is often easier when people have helpful information and support services.

Friends and relatives can be very supportive. Also, it helps many patients to discuss their concerns with others who have cancer. Cancer patients often get together in support groups, where they can share what they have learned about coping with cancer and the effects of treatment. It is important to keep in mind, however, that each person 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 is always a good idea to discuss the advice of friends and family members with the health care provider.

People living with cancer may worry about what the future holds. They may worry about holding their jobs, caring for their families, personal relationships, or continuing with daily activities. Concerns about tests, treatments, hospital stays, and medical bills are also common. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, psychologist, or member of the clergy can be helpful to people who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their concerns. Often, a social worker can suggest groups that can help with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care.