A support group, also known as a social support group, is composed of individuals who regularly meet under the supervision of a facilitator to overcome or cope with a common problem. In a support group, people provide support, comfort, encouragement, and guidance as they tackle their issues together.

Find out more about the types of support groups and information on how to join one.

Types of Support Groups

There are different types of support groups, which vary in terms of the issues they deal with. The way support groups convene and what the participants do during the meetings also vary.

Here are the most common types of support groups:

12-Step Groups

You may have heard of the widely-renowned support group Alcoholics Anonymous. This support group originally devised the 12 steps, which are the foundations for recovery. Among the 12 steps are the principles of honesty, surrender, integrity, acceptance, and humility. These core values serve as a source of strength and hope for people in recovery.

Most 12-step programs are designed for those with an addiction to certain substances or behavior, whether alcohol, drugs, gambling, or Internet use. The 12 steps to recovery are practiced by individuals at group meetings.

12-step self-help groups are generally peer-led. They are open to everyone and frequently provide separate sessions for the families of individuals struggling with addiction. For instance, Al-Anon support groups are for families and friends of people struggling with alcoholism.

Members of 12-step self-help groups may share their personal experiences, listen to other people’s stories, and assist one another by offering suggestions or ideas for coping strategies. Participants in these groups may feel more liberated to speak candidly than those in groups led by a professionally-trained facilitator, although this isn’t always the case. 12-step programs are typically cost-free.

Mutual Support Groups

Similar to 12-step programs, mutual support groups are run by peers. Although peers are trained, they usually do not offer professional advice. Instead, they facilitate support and encouragement among the participants. People struggling with a specific condition or personal issues, such as a medical diagnosis, grief, or domestic violence, may join a mutual support group.

Mutual support groups may also help people dealing with certain conditions, such as the American Cancer Society for cancer patients. In mutual support groups, members discuss coping strategies that work for them and encourage others to follow suit. Mutual support groups are usually free of charge.

Therapy Groups

Therapy groups are facilitated by mental health professionals, as opposed to 12-step groups and mutual support groups. A qualified therapist gathers several participants who are dealing with similar challenges and offers group therapy to them. Members of these support groups may share their personal experiences and get professional guidance and perspectives on addressing their own problems. 

There are therapy groups accessible for various mental health conditions, such as depression and eating disorders. A therapy group may ask for high fees. In some cases, health insurance may cover it.

Online Support Groups

Online support groups may be helpful when meeting in person is not possible. They are a great alternative when transportation is not available, the distance is too far, or your work or family schedule does not allow you to attend an in-person support group meeting. There may or may not be a fee for joining an online support group.

The various types of support groups can meet in person or virtually through video conferencing tools. In-person meetings may be held in hospitals, clinics, community centers, offices, or treatment facilities, but online meetings may be accessed from any location over the Internet.

Ready to find a support group perfect for you? Contact us at (424)327-4614 to learn more.

Possible Risks

Support groups may have possible risks and negative aspects. On that note, successful groups primarily rely on the group leader or facilitator to help stay clear of many problems, including:

• Lack of confidentiality

• The conversation may be dominated by grumbling or complaining

• Group members may cause trouble

• Interpersonal difficulties, conflict within the group, or emotional entanglements

• Comparisons of whose circumstance or experience is worse

• Incorrect or unreliable medical advice

• Scheduling conflicts

• Possible personality clash among group members

• Members with social anxiety may struggle with sharing their experiences

The facilitator, whether they are a professional or an ordinary person, must be knowledgeable and competent. Capable facilitators understand how to set boundaries and stick to a timetable while allowing each member to speak. They play an important role in bringing together the same issues within the group that sparked the most effective conversations.

Despite the possible risks, peer support groups are generally advantageous. To steer clear of issues, facilitators must exhibit careful planning, compassion, structure, consistency, and maintenance. 

How to Find a Support Group

You may access support groups through medical providers, social workers, clinics, mental health organizations, or community organizations such as churches. Many support groups can also be found on health websites and online forums. Other support groups are run by independent individuals, and these are commonly referred to as peer-led support groups.

For specific illnesses and conditions, support group information may be available on the Mental Health America website. Such groups can also be discovered through referrals from family and friends.

With Design for Recovery, finding a support group is easier than before. Simply call us at (424)327-4614 to book an appointment.

Questions to Ask Before Joining a Support Group

The structure and focus areas of support groups may differ. Before attending a support group, consider the following questions:

• What are the confidentiality guidelines?

• Is the group intended for those with a specific medical condition or addiction?

• Is a facilitator or moderator present?

• When and how often does the support group meet?

• Where does the group get together?

• What does a typical meeting look like?

• Is the group meeting for a specific time, or does it meet indefinitely?

• Is there a mental health professional in the group?

• Has the facilitator had any training?

• Is there a set of ground rules for group participation?

• Are there online communities for this support group?

• Is it free, and if not, how much does it cost?

Knowing how to prepare for the first meeting will be easier once these questions are addressed. Making a list of your objectives and expectations in advance and noting any observations may be helpful.

Rules and expectations are necessary to ensure members feel comfortable. To prevent someone from dominating the discussion, it is standard for groups to impose a time limit of 1-2 minutes per participant. If someone is uncomfortable sharing, a “pass rule” is often in place. Group members are encouraged to be empathetic, respectful and uphold full confidentiality.

Getting the Most Out of a Support Group

When you join a new group, you may be concerned about sharing your struggles with someone you don’t know. At first, merely listening may be helpful. However, expressing your thoughts and experiences may benefit you because you won’t feel lonely or isolated in your struggles.

You may also consider a few things to get the most out of attending a support group:

• Be considerate to others in the group. People who attend support groups are coping with significant, sensitive, and emotionally-driven topics. Always listen actively to other members and offer encouragement and support. Take note that there’s always the possibility that anything will upset or trigger you during the group session. If you do not feel comfortable with a certain topic, bring it to the facilitator’s attention and allow them the opportunity to help resolve the situation.

• Attend regularly. Attending a support group consistently may allow you to make the most of your recovery process. It will assist you in becoming familiar with other group members and increase your sense of comfort and confidence.

• Join in on the discussion. Participation in a discussion keeps the conversation going and everyone interested. Be open and honest about your experiences and feelings, and be willing to give and receive feedback from others. The other participants may learn from your updates on making progress and any helpful advice you may want to share with them.

Are you or a loved one looking for a support group that can turn your life around? Contact us at (424)327-4614 to learn more.

Myths and Misperceptions About Support Groups

In some communities, there is still a stigma connected with mental illness and attending support groups. Some of the common myths and misperceptions about support groups people ponder on include the following:

• Myth: There are no solutions in support groups.

Fact: While support groups are not a cure for all your problems, you will obtain some answers and a lot of support while addressing a complex or sensitive issue.

• Myth: I might face insults or criticism from other participants.

Fact: An effectively managed support group establishes boundaries and requires participants to demonstrate empathy, confidentiality, and respect for one another.

• Myth: I will be forced to tell even the most sensitive parts of my story.

Fact: In most support groups, you have the option of speaking (or not speaking) as you see fit.

Dealing with a significant problem like addiction or mental illness may be difficult and emotionally exhausting. As a result, it is normal to experience anxiety or shame when joining a support group for the first time. Nonetheless, joining a support group demonstrates acceptance that the problem you’re dealing with is real, that you can no longer stay away from it, and that you need support. Through a support group, you’ll meet new people who are more understanding and compassionate of your situation than some of your closest friends and family members tend to be.

It’s important to remember that a support group is not a replacement for medical treatment. Inform your doctor that you are attending a support group. If you do not think a support group is appropriate for you but need help coping with your condition or situation, speak with your treatment provider about counseling, outpatient treatment, or other recovery options, such as sober living homes.

At Design for Recovery sober living homes, we provide a safe and structured environment where people may learn vital everyday skills to help them transition from residential treatment into regular life. Our sober living provides resources that allow residents to attend 12-step meetings, build a sober social network, and explore the underlying issues behind mental health problems or addiction through counseling. Contact us to learn more about our sober living programs.