The Importance of Lymphedema Support Groups

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The Importance of Lymphedema Support Groups

BY JOACHIM ZUTHER, ON NOVEMBER 28TH, 2011

In a support group, members provide each other with various forms of help, usually non-professional and non-material. They can be a crucial tool for individuals who share the common diagnosis of lymphedema to come together and share coping tips, experiences, news, and most importantly emotional support.

The help and information received in lymphedema support groups may take the form of providing and evaluating relevant information on treatment modalities, self-care, relating personal experiences, listening to and accepting others’ experiences, providing sympathetic understanding, and establishing social networks.

While providing important emotional support, support groups are more than just a safety net for the patient. In fact, they can even improve the physical health and wellness of participants. Members of an established support group not only serve as educators for individuals newly affected by lymphedema, but also inform the public about lymphedema, engage in advocacy, or can serve as a clearing house for disseminating news of important advancements or therapies.

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