What support groups offer Support groups have a number of things to offer people, for instance: • Altruism, i.e. unselfish concern for others and a chance to help others • Belonging • Interpersonal learning • Guidance • Catharsis, i.e. getting rid of unhappy memories or strong emotions such as anger or sadness by expressing them in an appropriate way • Socialisation and social support, and encouragement from others • Learning how to express feelings in a healthy and positive way • Practising assertive communication • Learning to receive feedback • Learning new ways of asking for help from others • Learning how to form new friendships and learning new coping skills and behaviours • Information • Reduction of distress, depression or anxiety. Note that each of these factors is directly related to the mutual support with which members provide one another. Structure of a support group The following can be said about the structure of support groups: • Support groups comprise people with common interests and experiences or who are going through similar circumstances • Most support groups are facilitated or led by a lay person (member of the group) in conjunction with existing organisations • They usually have set meeting times, e.g. weekly or monthly • They have an open format, i.e. groups are ongoing and members have the option of attending when it is convenient for them (unlike psychotherapy). For some people, simply attending meetings and listening to the experiences of others can be helpful • Each group establishes its norms, rules and schedules, and expectations of each member (e.g. respect for others, punctuality, not consuming alcohol at meetings) • Some support groups periodically invite speakers to provide information or specific coping skills • Because of technology, there are now email groups, chat groups, etc., for people who cannot meet or who stay far apart • Support groups are most successful when composed of persons close in age or who are experiencing similar life challenges • Support groups can meet anywhere, as long as they agree on this as a group. What makes for a good peer support group? Good support groups: • • • • • • • Have up-to-date and reliable information; Respond promptly to contacts; Hold regular meetings; Have access to suitable professional advisors, e.g. therapists, primary-care providers; Have strong leadership; Have a clearly stated confidentiality policy; and Are sensitive to individual rights, privacy and boundaries. Module 7: Dealing with trauma, psychological healing and support 121 7