Research indicates that, cancer patients benefit at a feeling level from group psychotherapy, and their survival potential is also maximized. There are significant differences between support groups and professionally led groups. Support groups are generally modeled after self-help groups and no individual interventions are attempted by the leaders. Normally, interaction between members is reserved as a post-group activity. The size of the group is variable and limited only by room size.
Attendance is open and individuals can come regularly or infrequently as they choose.
While support groups may effect survival, there is no research to support this as yet. The small size and relatively fixed membership promotes trust and cohesiveness among members. Close personal group experience has been shown to be a survival factor in many research studies. The following are links to other web sites that I found helpful. If you have a suggestion, feedback or if you have questions that may be of general interest, resources and mental health services please let me know.