The role of self-help groups in helping patients and families cope with cancer.

Abstract

Self-help processes of change are different and distinct from those of professional service and evolve empirically out of the patients' own experience. There is increasing evidence that self-help groups are beneficial, and their use should be encouraged. It is not a question of which system of change-self help or professional-is better. Both methods appear to have a meaningful role in helping individuals with psychosocial problems, including patients with cancer.