Ovarian Cancer Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Robert P Edwards, MD

Coauthor:

Jana M Lee, MD

Coauthor:

Paul Blackburn, DO, FACOEP, FACEP

Medical Editor:

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Dr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident.

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Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Lee P Shulman, MD

Support Groups and Counseling

If you are living with cancer, itpresents many new challenges for you and for your family and friends.

• You will probably have many worries about how the cancer will affect you and your ability to "live a normal life," that is,to care for your family and home, to hold your job, and to continue the friendships and activities you enjoy.
  
  
• Many people feel anxious and depressed. Some people feel angry and resentful; others feel helpless and defeated.

• Your friends and family members can be very supportive. They may be hesitant to offer support until they see how you are coping. Do notwait for them to bring it up. If you want to talk about your concerns, let them know.
  
  
• Some people do not want to "burden" their loved ones, or they prefer talking about their concerns with a more neutral professional. A social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful if you want to discuss your feelings and concerns about having cancer. Your gynecologist or oncologist should be able to recommend someone.
  
  
• Talking to other people who havecancer hasprofoundly helped many people. Sharing your concerns with others who have been through the same thing can be remarkably reassuring. Support groups of people with cancer may be available through the medical center where you are receiving your treatment. The American Cancer Society also has information about support groups all over the United States.