1. The Community of Group
Groups are dynamic that allow for an environment in which to practice new skills. They are also a place to learn new ways to think, feel or perceive. A group creates a special community, and an ADHD group can be a supportive environment in which to explore various sides of you. In many ways, the group can become an extension of family, and you may find the same tensions occurring in group as in your family of origin. Within the group, a variety of relationships form. The manner in which a member relates to the leader(s) can mimic the parent-child relationship. Finding a healthy group in which rules and structure are provided can be critical to your success in group. Let's look at the components of group that may help you to find the one for you. Looking for a group that addresses medication concerns, ways to improve attention abilities, and foster self-esteem are most helpful. A group that addresses life style choices, including diet and exercise, will give you a broader perspective in managing your ADHD.
2. What is Support?
Finding a group that provides clear expectations for participation and structure outlining limits and boundaries is the place to start. The availability of the group, time, location and frequency of meetings needs to be consistent. Consider what aspects of your behavior are in need of modification or change. You might want to examine how you think about support. Ask yourself how you define supportive behavior. Sometimes support isn't exactly what we think or isn't what we think we need. Support allows us the comfort to take risks, set goals and accomplish goals in changing our behavior.
3. Identifying With Others in Group
Groups provide an immediate environment for feedback. This component makes groups one of the most effective means of therapy. Frequently, the power of relationships formed in groups can have more impact than individual therapy. Sometimes we can hear things from strangers or others who struggle with like issues because we feel their better able to understand us. It may also be we feel less ashamed when we know that person may have similar experiences to our own. In the same fashion, it is important to be mindful about over-identifying with others in group. A healthy group with an effective leader will assist you if this happens and prevent it from occurring, if possible. Decide whether the group is for the purpose of education or support surrounding ADHD issues. Look for a group that offers one or the other, but it's best if you can attend one that offers both.
4. What Makes a Healthy Group?
The technical aspects of group (time, place and structure) provide the foundation or framework for the making of a healthy group. Beyond that, the people and relationships formed within are what make for a healthy group. Each member needs to be heard and given equal time within group. The conflicting relationships that may develop require attention, but can also help us grow and learn new ways of coping. Practicing new skills and learning in this safe environment can help you gather strength to try your new behavior in significant or intimate relationships.
5. How to Choose a Support Group
Beyond finding a group that fits your scheduling needs, it is important to find a group in which you feel you belong. You may need to try a few groups to find what you will consider as your home group. You'll want a group that calls you on inappropriate behavior. Having consequences for behavior in an instructive manner delivered in a "supportive" way is beneficial. Learning to give and take feedback is a critical life skill; your group may be able to help you with developing this skill. The group can provide encouragement, praise for growth and validation. Aligning with an unhealthy group is not only counterproductive, it can be damaging. The group isn't there to "cure" your ADHD, but it is meant to offer you the support you need to get healthy. If the group isn't supportive, don't go! You might start by contacting your local chapter of CHADD, to see what they have to offer. Find a group that is healthy, go and grow!
