How Parents and Whānau Can Access Cancer Support in NZ
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from the Health category at
04 Nov 2024 03:39:51 pm.
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A cancer diagnosis for a teenager can feel overwhelming not only for the individual but also for their entire whānau (family). For parents and siblings, navigating the emotional and practical challenges of supporting a young person with cancer can be complex and exhausting. Fortunately, New Zealand offers a range of support services designed specifically to help families through this journey. Organisations like Canteen Aotearoa provide essential resources that address the needs of both the teenager and their whānau. This guide explores how parents and whānau can access these support services and why they’re vital for fostering resilience and unity.
The Role of Family in Supporting a Teenager with CancerWhen a teenager faces cancer, family members often become primary caregivers and emotional anchors. Parents may manage the logistical aspects of care, such as appointments and treatments, while also providing emotional support. Siblings may find themselves taking on additional responsibilities at home or feeling overlooked as their parents focus on the needs of their ill sibling.
Family support services are essential in helping parents and whānau cope with these changes, providing a stable and compassionate environment where everyone feels supported. A well-supported family can, in turn, provide stronger, more compassionate care to the teenager undergoing treatment.
How to Access Cancer Support for Parents and WhānauAccessing cancer support for families in New Zealand is straightforward, thanks to organisations like Canteen Aotearoa. Here are some practical steps for parents and whānau to access these resources:
- Contact Canteen Aotearoa Directly Reaching out to Canteen is an excellent first step. Their team is dedicated to helping families navigate the support options available, offering personalised guidance to connect you with the services that best fit your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for counselling, peer support, or educational resources, Canteen provides a range of services that cater to families at different stages of the cancer journey.
- Attend Family Support Groups Support groups designed for families are invaluable in helping parents and siblings find connection and understanding. These groups provide a safe space where family members can share their experiences, offer advice, and find comfort in knowing they’re not alone. Canteen hosts regular family support groups where participants can discuss their journeys with others facing similar challenges.
- Utilise Educational Workshops Workshops are a practical resource for families, offering insights into the emotional, logistical, and medical aspects of cancer care. Canteen’s workshops cover topics such as stress management, effective communication, and coping strategies for the whole family. By attending these sessions, parents and whānau gain valuable skills that help them feel more prepared to support their loved one.
- Participate in Peer Support Events Peer support events bring together teenagers with cancer and their families in a supportive, social setting. These events are designed to foster connections among families, creating a community where everyone can find support. Canteen’s peer support events include recreational activities and outings that allow families to enjoy time together away from the stresses of treatment.
- Access Counselling Services Counselling is essential for helping parents and siblings process their emotions, manage stress, and find healthy ways to cope with the challenges of cancer. Canteen provides counselling services specifically for family members, creating a safe environment for individual expression and emotional healing.
- Emotional Resilience: Cancer can bring a wave of emotions, from fear and sadness to anger and guilt. Support services equip families with tools to manage these emotions, building resilience that helps them face challenges with strength and optimism.
- Improved Communication: Many family support services focus on communication skills, helping family members express their feelings openly and honestly. This transparency fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and understood.
- Stronger Family Bonds: Participating in support groups, workshops, and peer events creates a sense of unity among family members. These shared experiences strengthen family bonds and help each member feel valued, supported, and connected.
- Practical Guidance: Cancer support services offer practical advice on navigating treatment, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced family life. This guidance helps parents and siblings feel more prepared to face the day-to-day realities of a cancer diagnosis.
Through services like counselling, peer support, and family events, Canteen Aotearoa empowers families to navigate cancer with a sense of hope, strength, and unity. Their holistic approach ensures that no one feels left out or unsupported, creating an environment where each family member has the resources they need.
Practical Tips for Supporting a Teenager with CancerIf you’re a parent or family member supporting a teenager with cancer, here are a few practical tips to help you navigate this journey:
- Create Open Lines of Communication: Encourage your teenager to share their feelings and be honest about your own emotions. Open communication helps reduce misunderstandings and fosters a supportive environment.
- Take Care of Your Own Well-being: Caring for a teenager with cancer can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Make time for self-care, whether it’s through exercise, hobbies, or counselling. Your well-being is essential to providing the best support possible.
- Encourage Peer Connections: Encourage your teenager to participate in peer support events. These connections offer invaluable emotional support and help teenagers feel understood.
- Seek Out Educational Resources: The more you know about your loved one’s condition and treatment, the more empowered you’ll feel. Attend workshops, read articles, and consult with healthcare professionals to stay informed.
Tags: cancer support
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