What is a Support Group?
A support group is a voluntary gathering of people who share a common problem, condition or history. By coming together, members share support and ideas on how to cope and live more productive and fulfilling lives. Groups are usually free of charge, ongoing and open to new members.
Support groups are playing an increasingly important role in the health care system. Group members tend to take responsibility for each other and themselves, so support groups complement traditional health services. People find that participating with others dealing with similar issues effectively helps them learn to manage their own challenges and personal development.
How can a group help me?
You’ll feel better for taking the first step of attending a meeting and enjoying the comfort and fellowship of others who understand.
Being with people who share a common concern helps you gather information.
Through a caring and sharing exchange, you’ll gain insight and coping strategies from people who are finding ways to manage successfully with similar challenges.
You’ll become part of a network that receives training and up-to-date information.
Finally, a support group can help you therapeutically as you become involved and help others in the group.
It is important to realize that support groups are not a substitute for group therapy or individual counseling. Therapy may be a valuable component of your recovery.
How do I find the right group?
Keep an open mind at your initial meetings and try to find out all you can. You may need to attend several meetings before you feel things are “clicking”. Here are some factors all good groups have in common:
Warmth and friendliness between members and a welcoming attitude towards newcomers
Some focus and structure to meetings, while allowing time for members to mingle informally
Regularly scheduled meetings with an ongoing agenda to reassure members that the group will be there for them in the future with support and information
General information and shared decision making by members
Meetings should offer a non-judgmental atmosphere where each person who chooses has a chance to share
The benefit of a support group arises from the sharing of life experiences, the altruism, and a sense of community within the group.
Abstract of information with permission of the Rainy Day People Clearinghouse from an article in Back to Health by Jinx Smith in June 1989, ad a newsletter of the Rainy Day People Clearinghouse, Scottsdale, AZ, Spring 1996.