I have volunteered for NAMI for about seven to eight years in my past. These experiences (support group facilitator, IOOV speaker, and Peer-to-Peer class mentor) have helped me, as well as all the other peers who attended, as much as or more than them. I was able to see myself and my problems in an entirely different, and often, a more realistic perspective than before. These experiences helped me gain confidence in myself as well as heightening my empathy for others. The only reason I stepped down about two or three years ago was my symptoms of "burn-out." So when you decide to take the step of becoming a facilitator, please pace yourself and get to know what your limits are. Also, take care of yourself in other ways. Take the time to do something you enjoy and "smell the roses" on your new path. Maybe I don't even need to mention this here, but make sure you keep all of your mental health appointments. Sometimes, you may need the support of someone when a person in a support group or an entire support group seems to get out of hand, you may not be sure if you did the best thing in some of these situations. Best of luck.
Donna