There are many ways you can get emotional support before, during, or after your cancer care. Some of these are offered as:
This type of support is given by calling you over the phone. It’s a way to easily and quickly connect with you in between in-person or virtual visits.
Make sure to update your phone number with the main registration desk if it has changed. You can also let them know if there is a preferred number you would like them to call first (e.g. your cell phone instead of your home phone).
Online support is becoming more popular in healthcare.
Virtual care lets your healthcare team see you in times when it might not be easy, safe, or necessary for you to be seen in person. This is often an easier (and more convenient) way for patients to attend appointments. You get to speak with your healthcare team from the comfort of your own home.
At WRHN Cancer Centre, a platform called “OTN” (Ontario Telemedicine Network) is used to connect with patients virtually. This is a safe and secure way for you to share your medical information.
Below are some of the ways you can access support.
Everyone is unique, and the support you need might look different than someone else’s. You might like to explore 1, or more, of these options to get the support you need.
This is often a 1-on-1 meeting with a healthcare team member. It might be in person, over the phone, or virtually (on the computer) based on your needs.
This might be best for you if you:
This type of support is usually between you and another person. Often this other person has shared a similar experience to you (example: going through cancer treatment).
These are groups of people who share common experiences living with cancer. You may find comfort, advice, and encouragement. Group size can vary.
Are there gaps in your region for support groups and virtual peer support?
You can take online training through the Canadian Cancer Society to become a support group facilitator. After you finish training, peer facilitators lead, operate, and oversee the delivery of support groups. This is independent (separate from) of the Canadian Cancer Society.
Explore some free mental health and/or counselling services in Waterloo Wellington. Talk to your healthcare team if you’re not sure where to start.
| SERVICE | CONTACT INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| Canadian Cancer Society “Life After Treatment” Information |
Website: www.cancer.ca/en/living-with-cancer/life-after-treatment Phone: 1-888-939-3333 |
| Camino Adult Quick Response Drop In Counselling Or Sliding Scale Individual Counselling |
Website: www.caminowellbeing.ca/ Email: [email protected] Phone: 519-743-6333 |
| Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington Self-Help and Peer Support Groups |
Website: www.cmhaww.ca/services/self-help-peer-support/ Phone: 1-844-264-2993 |
| Here 24/7 Immediate Phone Support |
Phone: 1-844-437-3247 Website: www.here247.ca |
| Mount Forest Family Health Team Mental Health Program *For patients of the Mount Forest Family Health Team only |
Website: www.mountforestfht.com/mental-health-resources Phone: 519-323-0255 x 5014 |
| Waterloo Wellington Self-Management Program Anxiety Skills and Strategies Workshop |
Website: www.wwselfmanagement.ca Email: [email protected] Phone: 1-866-337-3318 |