Support Groups
May 22, 2008 at 12:13 pm (Multiple Myeloma, Multiple Myeloma - 10. Support Groups) (Multiple Myeloma, patient social networking, Self help groups)
The MeSH definition of self-help groups is organizations which provide an environment encouraging social interactions through group activities or individual relationships especially for the purpose of rehabilitating or supporting patients, individuals with common health problems, or the elderly. They include therapeutic social clubs.
The results of research on the efficacy of support groups on patient prognosis is often disappointing. But it makes sense that knowing you’re not alone in your struggle is helpful to many patients.
IMF links are here: http://myeloma.org/main.jsp?source=tab&type=tab&tab_id=6
MMRF links are here: http://www.multiplemyeloma.org/about_myeloma/2.09.02.php
Note their mentors here: http://www.multiplemyeloma.org/about_myeloma/2.09.03.php
American Self Help Clearinghouse
http://mentalhelp.net/selfhelp
This is the online version of the Self-Help Group Sourcebook – an excellent source for additional support groups.
Patient Social Networking Sites
The May 2008 Medicine on the Net feature article was on patient social networking sites. These two sites were specifically mentioned:
PatientsLikeMe: http://www.patientslikeme.com
DailyStrength: http://www.dailystrength.org
