Does group therapy work?

Hello everyone. I've been suffering from depression for many years; I've tried three different meds - nothing worked. I finally decided to see a therapist and I've been going every week for the past three months. Unfortunately, I don't think it's working...feels like I'm spinning my wheels. I told the therapist how I felt and she recommended group therapy. Does anyone have any personal experiences with this type of therapy? Any advice on what questions to ask? I can't imagine opening up to a group of strangers, but I'm willing to try anything at this point. Maybe I should just look for another therapist? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Personally, I have never had much success with group therapy. While it is set up for the group to be able to support each other, it didn't give me enough time to address my individual issues, nor was I able to speak of the more private issues. But this is just my experience. Others may have had more positive results.

As for meds, it sometimes takes several different antidepressants to find the one that works for you. I would not give up after only three.

With your T (therapist), once you get an antidepressant that works, you may feel more able to deal with therapy. If you continue to spin your wheels with your current T, then it may be time to go looking for another. Not every T will be a good match for your particular needs. Sometimes it takes a second try with someone new. Don't give up until you find the people you need.

My experience with group therapy is that i agree with buggsbunny. I haven't found it helpful at all, if anything i found myself more depressed when i left as i never really had time to talk even when i tried it just didn't happen so i ended up sitting there for 2 hours listening to there problems. I went for 4 weeks before calling it a day. Opening up to a T is one thing but a group of strangers just doesn't work for me. Good luck with whatever you do.

Thank you so much...what you said makes a lot of sense. I have an appointment for an initial evaluation tomorrow and I will address these concerns with the psychiatrist. Thanks again.

Thank you very much for your advice. I've had a hard time talking about certain issues with my therapist...cannot imagine talking about them with other people. I appreciate your help.

The key to a good group is a good group leader...I wish you well!

I have enjoyed going to group therapy because it is the first time sitting in a group of people who all understand what it feels like. and no one judges me. It is not like a time to get into the nitty gritty of my current struggles, but we are all just there to support one another, like this place, but face to face.

I agree with this.

I was in group therapy and at first I couldn't talk (first 2 months) but the group get to know eachother, I would say give it ago. Also there is no pressure for you talk which is one thing I liked.

Hi Maya24,

The Group therapy program I am in is complete next week, and I am full of gratitude to the members and the leaders through out the entire program.

From the very first day of being very nervous and then growing to feel safe and trusting in the 'group wisdom' that allowed me to grow.

I would suggest to give GT a try, as others have mentioned, you may be encouraged to talk but it is all up to you when you are ready.
The feeling of "i am not alone" when hearing members stories. Then the feedback given and received helps in so many ways with confidence.

Most Group norms are what happens in group stays in group. And making sure everyone is safe.

GT was for me a lot of intense work and worth the rewards, learning self care with practice as part of the therapy-relaxation, meditation and homework was added as the group progressed.
I am in a much better place to manage the depression. GT for me is a place of hope.
All the best,
G1

group therapy like any other therapy works only if you allow it to. It's all in your hands. No one and nothing can help you except you.

I have been in and led many groups and I love them! But, the key is finding the right one. Look at age range, gender, topics, location, length of time - whether ongoing or a limited number of sessions, type of therapy used (like psychodynamic, art therapy, CBT, DBT, etc). Find out about any homework assignments and how many therapists run the group. Also ask about how many people are allowed in the group. Group therapy works best when there is good chemistry among group members and when you can relate to the therapists. Sometimes a combination of indiv therapy and group therapy work best. It's worth checking into. Lots of groups also have a sliding scale to make it affordable. Good luck with the process and feel free to ask more questions if needed.