What is the deal with support groups?...

Support groups are a great tool for feeling better.  Whatever the issue, you can usually find a group that focuses on the area that you are attempting to deal with.  Of course, we all know about AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) and NA (Narcotics Anonymous).  But there are a variety of other choices out there. And all it takes is a willingness to do some research.  You can research through a local mental health association or NAMI. Google or another search engine is a valuable tool when you are looking for options. You might even be able to get some information about appropriate groups from your therapist or clinic. There are online options.  And some that require going to the group setting physically.  I wouldn't hesitate to say that you are covered 24 hours a day if you need some kind of support.  (Please don't go looking for the exception to that rule.  LOL!) Some people benefit from working primarily in a group setting when they get therapy. There might be a price differential if you are willing to work in a group instead of 1:1 with your therapist.   When you go to a group like that, it is called a therapeutic group. The point is to do therapy.  It is a little different than something which is only set up for the purpose of providing support.

Here is my opinion about why support groups can be really helpful.  I think that recovery comes in community.  When you are talking with people who can ‘relate’ to what you are experiencing, it can be powerful.  Other people may have ideas about how to handle things that are helpful for you.  They might be able to empathize with you about symptoms that you are experiencing and having some trouble with.  Many times, you can create relationships with people and have a resource when you are struggling and don’t know what else to do.  Sometimes just talking something out decreases the power it has over you.  And, of course, the more honest this support system is with you (in a loving way), the better.  Because other people may have ‘been there’ more than you think.  You may benefit from hearing about what they have experienced and what they did about it.  

When people are isolated and suffering from a mental illness, it is my opinion that they are suffering from a double whammy.  First, you have the depression and hopelessness.  Then you have the isolation, which leads to further depression.  Of course, people have varying social skills. Sometimes spending time in a group setting is kind of difficult.  But at the core of it, I think the best thing about working with other people in group settings is that you get to see that you are not the only one.  This is a powerful truth to see in and of itself. 

I am speaking from my experience, so I am talking about depression.  But I think that many types of mental illness benefit from the use of groups for therapy, support, and education.  If you have questions about how you or your loved one might benefit from a support group, get started on that research.  Google support groups online.  Give NAMI or the local mental health association a call.  Call a clinic or group dedicated to working with people suffering from the issue that you or your loved one are dealing with, such as the Alzheimer’s Association.  Just do it.  Sitting around and feeling bad are not a productive use of your time.  Take a risk!  Finally, as always, if you need some ideas or support from me…look at my contact information and call on me.  I want you to know that you can reach out. Really.