Self-Help Groups
Learn about self-help groups and how to find a group to meet your individual needs.
3 min readWhen problems arise in our lives, we tend to lean on family and friends. But it can also be helpful to join a self-help or support group with others who are dealing with the same issues. People who share a common problem can help each other heal, problem solve, and provide support and strength to each other.
Purpose of Self-Help Groups
Self-help groups rely on self-disclosure. When the participants feel comfortable, they share the details of their situation as well as their feelings, worries, and attempts at healing or recovery. Hearing another person's story, concerns, successes, and failures makes us feel accepted and less alone in our own life and situation. This is especially helpful when circumstances, like a disability or illness, can feel isolating.
Types of Self-Help Groups
There are many self-help groups available today. They can range from independent gatherings to programs that partner with a larger organization. Locations can also vary, including individual homes, hospitals, places of worship, schools, and other nonprofits or centers. Some self-help groups have a professional present to offer guidance and knowledge. Others follow a peer-led style. Many people enjoy this because “veterans” help those newer to the group share their experiences and what's working for them. In this approach, both the “veteran” and the newcomer benefit.
Self-Help Group Models
Alcoholics Anonymous is probably the most well-known self-help model. Its 12-step program was later adopted and refashioned for other groups, including Narcotics Anonymous, Debtors Anonymous, and Overeaters Anonymous. Respecting confidentiality outside of meetings is a central tenet of this program. Groups are self-supporting and not reliant on outside means.
Groups addressing medical needs provide information related to living with a specific disease or illness. You might also learn about who to contact or where to go for assistance and advocacy. Simply networking with other people or families who share the same medical situation can be a life-giving source of encouragement.
People with less common life situations or diseases can find help through online support groups. If you're looking for complete anonymity, cyber-support can be a good option. Websites, chat rooms, and discussion boards offer 24-hour accessibility to allow people to support one another.
Joining a Self-Help Group
While a support group can be a wonderful experience, finding the right one for you is key. The following five strategies will help you connect with a group to meet your individual needs:
Ask a professional. The internet is an excellent tool for finding a self-help group. However, some websites might not be as current on local resources. Try talking to your physician, counselor, or therapist for their recommendation for a great fit. If they've referred other patients or clients to a specific group, they might have feedback to help you make a more informed decision.
Walking through life’s trials and struggles is difficult. Sharing the journey makes it a little easier to handle. The right self-help group can play an important role in healing and provide strength along the way.
Sources:
Mental Health America. Find support groups. Accessed February 3, 2023. https://www.mhanational.org/find-support-groups Opens in a new window
Mayo Clinic. Support groups: Make connections, get help. Accessed February 3, 2023. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/in-depth/support-groups/art-20044655 Opens in a new window
Helpguide.org. Support groups: Types, benefits, and what to expect. Accessed February 3, 2023. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/therapy-medication/support-groups.htm Opens in a new window
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