Having cancer is one of the most stressful experiences many people go through. Getting help from support groups, loved ones, and your cancer care team is key for your quality of life and overall wellness during diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.

If you’ve been diagnosed with endometrial cancer — also known as uterine cancer — there have likely been moments when you’ve felt scared, confused, or overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face it alone. Read on to learn more about how loved ones and other resources can support you as you cope with endometrial cancer.

Support Groups

Support groups bring together people who share similar experiences. They offer a chance to connect with and learn from others with endometrial cancer who understand what you’re going through. An endometrial cancer support group is for anyone diagnosed with endometrial cancer, as well as for their loved ones.

Even if you have a strong support system of friends and family, you may find it comforting to connect with people who have experienced a similar diagnosis. Support groups can also empower you with valuable information and help you learn more about endometrial cancer and its treatment. Other survivors may be able to share tips on how to manage symptoms of endometrial cancer or side effects of medication. Some support groups even offer help with practical issues, such as work, school, or child care.

There are also support groups designed for loved ones and caregivers of people with cancer. These groups allow those closest to you to share their feelings, ask for advice, and learn how best to support you. They can also allow your loved ones to discuss important topics such as how to get financial assistance for medical bills or navigate changes at home.

Types of Support Groups

Support groups can help in different ways. Some support groups are led by trained professionals (such as social workers, psychologists, or therapists), while others are led by other people who have had cancer. These groups can meet in person or online through video meetings.

Support groups can also focus on specific groups of people, such as:

• People with any type of cancer
• People with a specific type of cancer or stage of cancer
• People in a certain age group
• Loved ones or caregivers of people who have cancer

How You Can Find a Support Group

You can find support groups that meet in person or online. Here are some places where you can look for in-person support groups:

• Local hospitals
• Your health care provider
• Cancer centers
• Community centers or groups
• Social workers
• Online searches
• Other people living with cancer

The American Cancer Society also has a 24/7 cancer helpline and resources to connect you to support programs and other cancer survivors in your area. You can call the helpline at 800-227-2345.

If you’re nervous about attending an in-person meeting, it may help to talk to someone in the group first to learn more about what to expect. Here are some questions you might want to ask about a support group:

• Who is this group for?
• What are the meetings like?
• What is the main purpose of the group?

You can also find online support groups on many different platforms. National cancer organizations and advocacy groups often have message boards where you can post or reply to discussion topics. You can also check any social media platforms you already use for groups or pages for people with endometrial cancer.

Your oncologist or the social work team at your medical center can also guide you to support programs and resources. If you’re having trouble finding support, don’t hesitate to ask those around you for help.

Support From Loved Ones

A cancer diagnosis can be difficult not only for you but also for those who care about you. It can be hard for your loved ones to know the best way to support you. Everyone’s experience is different, so clear communication is key. Be open about what you need, and remember that the support you need from those closest to you (such as a spouse or partner) may be different from what you need from friends or extended family.

Help With Your Cancer Care

A loved one may become your cancer caregiver while you go through treatment for endometrial cancer. A cancer caregiver is the person who helps you most often and is not paid for their help. This may be a spouse, partner, family member, or close friend.

Your cancer caregiver can be part of your cancer care team by helping with tasks such as:

• Attending doctors’ appointments with you
• Going with you to chemotherapy appointments
• Giving you medications
• Helping you manage side effects
• Helping you communicate with your doctors
• Keeping track of medical tests and appointments

Help With Daily Tasks

Cancer treatment can make it difficult to handle some of the things you were able to do before your cancer diagnosis. Creating a list of chores and errands that you need a hand with can make it easier for others to know how to help you.

Here are some tasks that may need attention:

• Shopping for groceries
• Preparing meals
• Picking up prescriptions from the pharmacy
• Doing laundry
• Cleaning the house
• Providing child care
• Mowing the lawn
• Going to the post office
• Driving you to and from doctors’ appointments or chemotherapy sessions

Emotional Support

One of the most important ways your loved ones can help is by providing emotional support. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family to visit you if you want company. Even long-distance conversations by phone, video chat, or text can help you feel supported. It’s OK if you don’t always feel like talking — sometimes, just having your loved ones spend time with you is enough.

Friends and family can also help you to take your mind off things for a while with fun activities, like watching a movie together or going for a walk. Exercise has been found to significantly improve both mental and physical health in people living with cancer. Finding a physical activity you can do regularly with a friend or loved one can help in many ways.

Mental Health Care

If you’re struggling with your mental health after being diagnosed with endometrial cancer, you’re not alone. One study found that up to 16 percent of people diagnosed with early-stage endometrial cancer experience anxiety or depression during their diagnosis and treatment.

If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, talk to your doctor about your treatment options. Let your doctor know if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:

• Often feeling nervous or on edge
• Being unable to control your worry
• Feeling sad, hopeless, or depressed
• Losing interest in things that used to bring you joy

Your doctor can help by recommending treatments such as medication or providing a referral to a mental health care professional, such as a counselor or therapist.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On MyEndometrialCancerTeam, the site for people with endometrial cancer and their loved ones, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with the condition.

What resources or support groups have helped you cope with endometrial cancer? How else do you receive support? Share your experiences in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.