Q: I’m thinking of joining a support group. Can you help me understand what I can get from a support group?
A: Support groups are places where people can share their own stories in a safe environment of understanding and acceptance. Support groups are encouraging and respectful of everyone’s space and story. Participants share information and resources. With the sharing, the group can become cohesive and members strengthen and empower themselves. Confidentiality is maintained just like individual therapy and can have a positive effect and impact on the overall health of the individual and group as a collective.
People are able to benefit from the information sharing that takes place in a support group. It is a setting to help with managing symptoms, developing better and healthier coping techniques. It can help with increased communication with their medical provider, friends and family members.
There are many kinds of support groups that range from topics of women’s issues to various addictions and discrimination and racism. Often they are advertised in the local newspapers and Facebook for communities. You may want to decide what support group you are interested in and try it to see how comfortable you are and how you like it.
Support groups are known to be very beneficial and they are either low cost or free of charge. Often there is a number to call to inquire about the group. I encourage you to seek the group that may fit your needs and attend so you will know if this is a good fit for you.