Do you go to a Support Group?

My Support Group is on tonight. I don't think it'll be a great session, mainly because of some of the people I expect to rock up.

There are some people who just come in and talk about themselves the whole time, or just go off the subject, etc.

But generally I like just about everyone there.

Do you go to a support group? What are your experiences?

I'm guessing you mean online, but maybe you mean IRL? I've been to neither, though curious to check out the online. Tried to find one IRL (there is pretty well nothing in the way of resources locally), and the phone contact was outdated. Got an updated one, but the answering machine message was loaded with religion. Which is fine, if that is what one is into. But it scared me off for fear of an agenda (not at ALL uncommon in this area). (Hey, I've got bipolar. Getting "into" things/phases is par for the course. As Bilbo Baggins said, "There and Back Again"... ) Is it too much to expect that one's particular flavor of mental interestingness is actually what a support group should be about? (Hoping to actually hear answers to that from those that *have* participated!)

It would be so nice to connect with others who actually understand and don't just say supportive things because they think they "should". Actually, that's a very big reason I joined PC!

This is my support group, otherwise... no.

I go to two formal addictions support groups through my hospital. One is women only, and one is a mixed aftercare group. I really like them both, although they're both pretty tough and have really strict rules about sobriety for membership, which I guess is good.

I also go to AA a couple of times a week which is helpful.

I have an intake assessment this week, for a trauma survivor's group that I hope to get into.

--splitimage

I've always wanted to try group therapy. I hate being in groups! I'm ambivalent. Mike

I went to one after my hospital admission - it took a few weeks but I did start appreciating it. After a couple of months the staff stepped back from it but we continued to meet for a coffee once a week. I met some good people who I wouldn't have otherwise met.

However, I tried one here and it just wasn't for me. There were a couple of very vocal members who I didn't take to, and I felt anxious about speaking as my accent instantly defines me as different. I really didn't feel comfortable - I went twice and thought that was enough to be able to make a decision. I had hoped I would have enjoyed it as it would have given me a space to talk about things properly rather than pretending that everything's great all the time.

Otherwise, yes, I feel that online forums are an important part of my support group.

My support group is here .....
My T wanted me to get into one .... This is where I landed so I think it is a good compromise .....
I did look into them in my area and the next one isnt until Feb ...
he thinks maybe by then I will be ready .....hmmmmm real people real talking and being unshielded ......I dont know???? guess we shall see
My T is my other support (of course )

Nope I dont like support groups too many people for me lol.

I was going to a local DBSA support group. It was okay, but there were a handful of people that were extremely manic and loud in this group and their behaviors scared me. Reminded me of an abusers behavior, so I stopped going.

My T said that she knew of a DID support group, but I'm not sure if I'm ready for that yet.

I would not change my support group for the world..

deep friendships in my life are the result

some talk about themselves
yet others are truly thoughful folks..

I strongly, strongly encourage others to check out DBSA
To feel included, what a wonderful feeling

I am part of a support group for fibromyalgia. I enjoy going mostly because I feel understood there in the sense of my pain. It helps to have some support and be given ideas on how to cope.

I used to go to one for anxiety (CBT). It helped but in the end I quit going because it was also stressful and I didn't feel it was a good fit for me. I am open to going to another one in the future tho