mutual sharing, listening & comfort
Haven Women's Support Groups
What is a support group?
A support group is a gathering of people facing common issues to share what’s troubling them. Through the sharing of experiences, they’re able to offer support, encouragement, and comfort to the other group members, and receive the same in return. When you’re going through a challenging or traumatic time, family members and friends may sympathize, but they don’t always know what to say or the best ways to help.
A support group offers a safe place where you can get information that’s practical, constructive, and helpful. You’ll have the benefit of encouragement, and you’ll learn more about coping with your problems through shared experiences. Hearing from others facing similar challenges can also make you feel less alone in your troubles.
Why meet online?
Online support groups can be useful when it’s not possible to meet in person. They’re a great alternative if the distance is too far, transportation isn’t available, or your work or family schedule prevents you from attending an in-person support group. Online support groups can also work well for those who are dealing with rare circumstances or where your peers are spread out across a wide area.
Sharing in a group makes me anxious. Are support groups for me?
It’s common to feel nervous, frightened, or even ashamed. By joining a support group, it means you’re acknowledging and accepting the fact that the issue you’re facing is real, you can no longer avoid dealing with it, and you need help. These can be hard things to accept, but there are ways to overcome the obstacles to taking that first step.
- You have nothing to lose by giving a support group a fair try. The people sitting on the other side of the door once felt the very same way you do.
- You’ll likely make new friends who will be more sympathetic than some of your closest friends and family members are able to be about your current circumstances.
- If you’re afraid to go alone, consider asking a trusted friend to tag along for moral support. After the first few meetings, you’re sure to feel more at ease.
What can I expect when I join the support group?
The agenda for Haven Women’s Support Groups covers four things:
The facilitator welcoming everyone
Each participant is given the opportunity to introduce themselves
A group discussion and peer sharing.
The facilitator’s closing remarks and ending the group meeting.
How do I make the most of joining a support group?
Attend on a regular basis.
You’ll get the most out of a support group if you attend regularly. It will help you get acquainted with other group members and increase your comfort level.
Participate in the discussions.
Participating in a group keeps the discussion flowing and everyone engaged. Other participants will look forward to hearing your updates and any words of wisdom you have to share with them.
Be sensitive to others in the group. There’s always a chance that something could come up during the group that upsets you or rubs you the wrong way. Be cognizant that people who come to support groups are dealing with serious, sensitive, and emotionally-charged issues. If you can’t look past it, bring the issue to the facilitator’s attention, and give them a chance to resolve it.
Recognize when a group isn’t the right fit.
A productive support group depends a lot on group dynamics. With different people joining and leaving the group, group dynamics can change. If things aren’t working out, you might consider switching to a different support group.