Another hypothesis is that family members, friends and others may help patients adhere to treatment, switch to a healthier diet and take other steps that prolong life. The family is usually the most important source of psychological support for a cancer patient. Having a physician who is knowledgeable, accessible and compassionate is also invaluable. Friends and organizations in the community provide the next level of support, and religious groups and clergy can offer solace as well. Self-help groups and professionally led groups for cancer patients, now common in most communities, help individuals to feel less alone, to share feelings with others who understand and to observe how different people cope with the same problems.
Members can also exchange information about treatment, hospitals and other aspects of their care.
Group therapy is not for everyone. Some people are reluctant to share private feelings or are upset by hearing the problems of others. They may choose individual psychotherapy to deal with illness-related crises. Others may prefer approaches such as relaxation exercises, including meditation, hypnosis or yoga. Learning these techniques can alleviate anxiety, insomnia and pain by reducing muscle tension and promoting a calm, contemplative emotional state.