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Thoughts on Support Groups

What other support groups have you participated in? What did you like or dislike about them?

I've participated in NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) groups, WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) groups, and others; including online groups. I prefer small groups, less than ten people. I enjoy sharing my story and relating to other people. Ideally, I would like to find a group that I can grow with, meet friends and people I can trust and spend time with outside of the meetings. I remember in WRAP meetings we developed rules that respected members of the group, that made me feel a little more comfortable. NAMI groups allowed me to bring my family, that was a plus, so that members of my family can be educated about things relating to mental illness too.

Online groups are great because of its diversity of experiences. You learn so much from other people's experiences and questions and answers. The plus for online groups is you get stay anonymous.

I can't say I disliked anything particular about the support groups I've attended. What are your thoughts on support groups?

Also, check out a new support group, Embracing My Mind. To learn more about schizophrenia visit NAMI or Schizophrenia Society of Novia Scotia (Canada).
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Comments

Laura said…
I prefer small groups too. I think peer support is great. It gives you the chance to interact with people who understand what you're going through.
June 24, 2009 at 7:10 PM
Manda said…
Me, I go to a mental health clinic to recieve treatment so they run all kinds of group therapy. It's wonderful. I just had an experience today where I shared something very personal and it was recieved well. I had started going to the group for a while and I finally felt comfortable. I think you have to get a feel for the group and really feel comfortable with the people. I think it takes time. However, I think a person will know if a group won't help the fairly soon into sessions with them. I hope you find a good group.
Hugs,
LA
June 25, 2009 at 10:24 PM
Virtual Window said…
I have some idea as to what you are going through. 9 years after my adult son had a brain tumor removed, he developed schizophrenia.

Unfortunately because his mental illness developed from a physical illness they are refusing him any financial funding from mental health resources. All assistance must come from a physical disability.

I hope you find a good group, and I wish you the best.

Barbara
June 29, 2009 at 6:57 AM
Ashley Smith said…
Barbara,

Thank you for sharing your experience with schizophrenia. I hope that you are involved with, or will get involved with, a support group.

Ashley
June 29, 2009 at 7:40 AM
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