Perceptions of Support Groups Among Older Breast Cancer Survivors

Green, Emily K.; Wodajo, Amelework; Ya-juan, Yang; Sleven, Miriam; Pieters, Huibrie C.

doi:10.1097/ncc.0000000000000522

Cited by 7 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 27 publications

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“…Many non-attendees had negative pre-conceived ideas of the support group model of care, including concerns about spreading misinformation and the potential emotional challenges of a metastatic-speci c group, such as confronting the deterioration and death of other group members. These issues have been discussed previously in other studies on support groups for MBC [19,40], and have also been reported amongst EBC survivors [43]. Interestingly, in our study, the participants who consciously chose not to attend a support group had no previous experience with faceto-face MBC groups.…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 66%

Finding my tribe: a qualitative interview study of how people living with metastatic breast cancer perceive metastatic breast cancer support groups

Mackie,

Boyle,

Lewis

et al. 2024

Preprint

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Purpose This study explored the value of MBC support groups, and factors that affect attendance, from the perspective of people with MBC. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 women with MBC (support group attendees n = 16; non-attendees n = 12). Data were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. Results Three themes were generated: the value of sharing experiential knowledge, spaces for open and honest conversations, and opportunities to find connection and community. These factors were the main reasons that some participants valued, and chose to attend, an MBC support group. Stage-specificity and professional facilitation were identified as important aspects of group structure. Key reasons for non-attendance were concerns about misinformation, confronting the death of group members, and satisfaction with existing support networks. Conclusions MBC support groups are beneficial for some people with MBC, providing opportunities to connect with others with the same diagnosis. For others, different forms of peer support such as online forums or one-on-one support may be preferred. We argue that ensuring those with MBC have equal access to the peer support they need will be essential in supporting people to live as well as possible with MBC. Implications for cancer survivors MBC support groups, if appropriately led, can provide emotional and informational benefits for people with MBC. This research may also have relevance to other metastatic cancers where novel therapies are extending survival, resulting in an emerging cancer population with distinct supportive and survivorship needs.

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Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 66%

Finding my tribe: a qualitative interview study of how people living with metastatic breast cancer perceive metastatic breast cancer support groups

Mackie,

Boyle,

Lewis

et al. 2024

Preprint

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“…Both support groups and group therapy have been demonstrated to be effective in reducing psychological distress in a variety of populations. 13 , 14 Group therapy, in which individuals come together to undergo psychotherapy under the supervision of a professional, has been demonstrated to treat psychological symptoms including depression and anxiety in individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. 14 Support groups, which differ from group therapy in that individuals come together to share their perspectives on a similar experience, have been demonstrated to be effective in reducing psychological distress and other psychological symptoms in a variety of populations.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Research has demonstrated found that support groups can be used to foster a sense of control and provide information to cancer survivors, as well as improve self-care activities in COPD patients who attend in-person support groups. 13 , 15 Research has also demonstrated that support groups offered virtually through social media can be effective in providing a platform for individuals living with chronic disease to obtain quick information and social support. 16 …”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Group Psychological Treatment Preferences of Individuals Living With Chronic Disease: Brief Report of a Saskatchewan-Based Cross-Sectional Survey

Haczkewicz,

Hill,

Cameron

et al. 2024

INQUIRY

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Given that individuals with chronic diseases comorbid with psychological distress experience worse clinical outcomes than those without psychological distress, treatment of the psychological sequalae that accompanies chronic diseases is of utmost importance. Thus, the present study aimed to examine group treatment preferences among adults living with chronic disease in Saskatchewan, Canada. An online survey regarding group treatment preferences was administered to 207 participants living with chronic disease comorbid with psychological distress. The most often reported treatment scenario was virtual sessions (45%) lasting 1 h (51%) and occurring every other week (45%) in the evening (63%) for 3 to4 months (40%). Preferences included a medium group (48%), a relatively closed group nature (ie, only occasional new members; 44%), and group leadership including at least 1 professional living with chronic disease (54%). Future-oriented (81%), supportive (83%), skill-based (95%), and group discussions (78%) were desired treatment characteristics among participants. Survey results showed clear preferences on treatment content and session logistics. Slight variations exist by gender and age, but a consensus can be identified and act as a preliminary treatment plan. This study contributes to the body of literature on psychological treatment preferences for individuals living with chronic disease by outlining the preferred format and composition of groups according to those with lived experience. Group-based psychological treatment for chronic disease patients should account for these preferences to improve its acceptability and usefulness among patients.

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Barriers and engagement in breast cancer survivorship wellness activities

Szuhany

Malgaroli

Riley

et al. 2021

Breast Cancer Res Treat

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Perceptions of Support Groups Among Older Breast Cancer Survivors

Abstract: Structural changes can benefit existing models of support groups including how and when support needs and services are discussed with survivors and a shift toward the inclusion of practical information.

Cited by 7 publications

References 27 publications

Finding my tribe: a qualitative interview study of how people living with metastatic breast cancer perceive metastatic breast cancer support groups

Finding my tribe: a qualitative interview study of how people living with metastatic breast cancer perceive metastatic breast cancer support groups

Group Psychological Treatment Preferences of Individuals Living With Chronic Disease: Brief Report of a Saskatchewan-Based Cross-Sectional Survey

Barriers and engagement in breast cancer survivorship wellness activities

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