Get Support During Treatment for Esophageal Cancer

Dealing with your feelings is often easier as you learn more about your disease and get support from others. Doctors, nurses, and other members of your healthcare team can answer your questions. Talking with friends and family or others who have had cancer can help. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy may also help. Many people with cancer attend support groups where they share what they’ve learned about cancer and its treatments. Here are some ways you may find support.

• Ask a nurse or social worker at your hospital or clinic to suggest a local or national group. Groups may offer emotional support, information, financial aid, transportation, home care, or other services.

• Call the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). They have information on resources.

• Call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345). This nonprofit organization helps people with cancer and their families.