COPD Information: COPD Support Groups

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Below adapted and expanded on from text generated by Gemini.” Gemini, Google, 12 June 2025, “COPD Support Groups” prompt.

COPD support groups, both online and in-person, offer a valuable opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with COPD, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. These groups can provide emotional support, help with managing symptoms, and empower individuals to live a more fulfilling life despite their diagnosis. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Online COPD Support Groups:

  • COPD360social: A virtual community run by the COPD Foundation, offering a place to connect with others, access reliable information, and find resources. [2, 7, 8]
  • Living with COPD: An online peer-to-peer support group run by the American Lung Association through Inspire, allowing individuals to share their experiences and learn from others. [2, 9, 10]
  • MyCOPDTeam: A free social network where people with COPD can share insights, ask questions, and find information. [2, 9]
  • Patient & Caregiver Network: An online support program to support people impacted by lung disease
  • Lung Health Navigators: Staff of the American Lung Association who provide one-on-one support at no cost to people impacted by COPD and other lung issues.

In-Person COPD Support Groups:

  • Better Breathers Club: A nationwide network of in-person and virtual support groups led by trained facilitators, offering education, resources, and emotional support. [3, 11, 12]
  • Local Support Groups: Many local health systems, hospitals, and community centers offer support groups for COPD patients and caregivers. Check with your local healthcare providers or community organizations. [6, 13]

 

Benefits of COPD Support Groups: [3, 20]

  • Emotional Support: Connecting with others who understand the challenges of COPD can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. [20, 20]
  • Knowledge and Education: Support groups offer a platform to learn about COPD, its management, and available resources. [3, 3, 11, 11]
  • Coping Strategies: Individuals can share their experiences and learn coping mechanisms from others who have successfully managed COPD. [3, 3, 20]
  • Reduced Fear and Anxiety: Sharing experiences and learning from others can help reduce fear and anxiety associated with exacerbations and other challenges. [20]

 

[1] https://smartvest.com/blog/finding-emotional-support-for-your-chronic-respiratory-illness/

[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/copd/support-groups-for-severe-copd

[3] https://www.lung.org/help-support/better-breathers-club/better-breathers-club-meetings

[4] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/copd-support-groups

[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-sleeping-position-for-copd-patients

[6] https://ahs.atlantichealth.org/conditions-treatments/pulmonary-services/pulmonary-support-resources.html

[7] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/breathe-better-network-spotlight/copd-foundation-creating-virtual-community-patients-and-caregivers

[8] https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/copd

[9] https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-find-copd-support-groups-5203018

[10] https://www.lung.org/help-support/patient-caregiver-network/online-support-communities

[11] https://www.lung.org/help-support/better-breathers-club

[12] https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/new-copd-national-action-plan

[13] https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/finding-support

[14] https://www.lung.org/help-support

[15] https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/living-with-copd/coping-with-emotions

[16] https://www.antidote.me/blog/benefits-of-a-copd-support-group

[17] https://www.nationaljewish.org/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease/overview/resources

[18] https://www.exchangecme.com/COPDHotTopicsResources

[19] https://www.copd.com/copd-support/where-to-find-help/

[20] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4gQY_zxkm0

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