Support Groups: Are They for You?

No matter what challenges you are facing — cancer, caregiving, addiction, behavior disorders and many more — there are local and online support groups where you can talk to people who understand. Those who are struggling with similar situations, others who have found ways to cope, and professionals who often facilitate meetings can all provide a shelter where you can express your honest thoughts, hear what has worked for those around you, and find compassion and strength in the words of other people.   Look for safety. Gatherings sponsored by reliable organizations will emphasize confidentiality and respect for all members. Usually, there are rules that keep one person from monopolizing the time and also allow for breaks. Facilitators, professional or peer, are there to help conversation run smoothly, not necessarily to give advice, unless there is a special informational topic. Just talking can ease the burdens you carry. Schedules vary, and meetings are held in community centers, hospitals, churches, and other places. It is okay to telephone the contact person before you visit if you would like to ask questions or get an idea of what the group is like.  Most support groups are offered free of charge to participants. Many are for adults, but some — like those at The Link Counseling Center in Sandy Springs, Georgia — include specific groups for children and teens among their programs. Other grief groups may be general or divided by type of loss (spo...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Self-Help Treatment Group Therapy Support Group Source Type: blogs