Support groups work because they are an intimate way that people who are going through some difficulty in their lives can connect with others who are going through the same difficulty. The exchange of stories and information can be valuable tools for those seeking answers and emotional support. Furthermore, they can dispel myths and misinformation, and offer an environment of normalcy to the person who is struggling with a problem. A support group helps to put things into perspective.
Types
In order for support groups to be effective, everyone participating needs to be honest and open when they join the group. The people in the group should feel that the space they are in is safe and comfortable and that their opinions and stories will be listened to and not judged. There are many types of support groups available for almost every problem. You may need to experiment with different groups until you find the one in which you feel the most comfortable.
Considerations
There are traditional support groups where people come together; there are online support groups and there are individualized tools such as blogging and reading blogs that can make the writer or reader feel like they are part of a community. Before you join a group, ask the right questions: Does the group have established rules? Is it free? Is it confidential? Does it address your culture?
Warning
One thing that people do need to know about support groups is that they are not group therapy sessions. There is usually not a therapist present, and people who are engaged in it should not expect to be given any kind of advice that is medical in nature. What they should be given is emotional support and resource information.
Organization
Support groups can be organized in many ways. They can be educational where different speakers are brought in to speak to the whole group on a topic that is pertinent to their situation. They can be formed by nonprofit or advocacy organizations, or by mental health clinics. Some support groups are highly structured; others are not.
Potential
If you are seeking a support group, first try to discern what it is you want from the group. Do you primarily want information? Do you want to share stories? Do you want to learn about the newest medical research? And finally, how you find a support group is another question you should ask. You can find support groups online, through your doctor, through people who have the same issue as you, through churches, synagogues or mosques. The most important thing for you to consider, however, is whether you feel comfortable.
