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Illness & disability
Finding support
Dealing with a health issue every day can get to you. Sometimes you just need a shoulder to cry on or someone to talk to. Talking with family members or friends can help. It can also help to talk with others who share your illness or disability. Ask your doctor to recommend a local support group to meet others who share your illness or disability. Also, you might want to ask your doctor if there is a counselor you can talk to. A counselor who works with young people can really help you feel stronger and less worried.
On-line support groups also are a good source of support. Ask your parents for help in finding one, and make sure to get permission before chatting on-line.
Don’t forget: If you are in the hospital, your best support just might be right down the hall. Your new friends and neighbors in the hospital know exactly what you are going through. You can cheer one another up and find fun things to do while you are getting care. Having a friend right there can also make the hospital seem less scary.
Helpful Tools
- The Starbright Foundation provides an on-line chat community for children and teens that are sick, as well as helpful information.
- 2beMe is a site for teens with cancer. Check it out for helpful information and support.
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center has on-line information for teens to help you through the tough times. They also offer advice from other teens.
- For more links and organizations, visit our information section.
Content last updated October 21, 2009
