Finding the Right Mental Health Support Group

Introduction

Research shows that it joining a support group is one of the best ways to recover from mental health problems. Additionally, taking part in group therapy activities enables family members and friends of the patient to better understand the mental illness that their loved one suffered from. But too often, patients find it difficult to find the right support group. It’s recommended to think carefully about the type of group you want as this will guide your decision regarding the group to join. Also, you will want to know the type of group activities for adults that the group offers. Here is a guide about how to find the perfect mental health support group for you.

 

Understanding Your Needs

 

  • Decide on a topic.

 

The support group you choose should be focused on the specific mental health problem that you have. The group will not be of any use to you if you choose one whose patients or leader does not have experience in the problem you have.

 

  • Choose a format. 

 

Next, you will have to make a decision about whether to attend the group therapy session in person or if your needs are best served online. For some people, the fun activities for adults, support, and comfort that comes with meeting their peers is a big draw to in-person sessions. On the other hand, some people like the anonymity and convenience associated with online groups.

 

  • Choose the kind of facilitator that most appeals to you.

 

You will need to choose between joining a group run by one of your peers, or that led by an expert mental healthcare provider.

 

  • Try out a few groups.

 

The main purpose of a mental health support group, as well as the group therapy activities offered, is to help patients and their kin to live with a mental health problem. But this doesn’t mean that all groups are a perfect fit for you. That is why it is recommended to visit the group prior and assess whether it matches your desires or not. Also, keep tabs on the kind of group activities for adults and see whether they interest you or if you would struggle taking part in the activities. Because some groups hold meetings closely, you are best off with open groups that allow you to attend their sessions. 

 

  • Know When to Continue with the Search

 

Before you make up your mind about the group that is right for you, it’s recommended to attend several support group sessions first. You will know whether the group is right for you if you come out feeling better, and also on the kind of activities for adults they have.

Finding Local Support Groups

 

  • Consult your doctor.

 

Your primary healthcare provider may know some local support groups to help you, which is why you want to start by asking them. They may have had patients like you who required the same support and activities for adults you are now looking for. There are high chances that a group recommended by your doctor will be beneficial to you.

 

  • Talk to Your Therapist

 

In case you or your kin are a member of a group or individual therapy, ask the therapist for recommendations of a support group aligning with your needs. The majority of therapists also double up as facilitators for different support groups, some of which may already be in your community.

 

  • Support Services at Your School May be of Help

 

School mental health providers or counselors may help you find appropriate group therapy activities where you school at. Universities and colleges often have student- and professional-run support groups that can meet virtually or on campus. The advantage with these arrangements is that group therapy activities will be easy and fun to do since you do them with your school peers.

 

  • Get in Touch with Community centers or local churches

 

Visit or call libraries, community centers, churches, and other venues in your locale. Most of these offer various types of support groups and could have resources to help you. 

 

  • Start Your own Group

 

If you have the skills and time it takes to manage a support group, there is nothing stopping you from starting one. Also, it could be that you cannot find an already existing support group that appeals to your mental health needs. If you see that you are capable of leading a group, you only need to find a space for holding those meetings. While you may hold the meetings at home, churches and hospitals also allow support groups to meet free of charge.

 

Going Online to Find Support Groups 

 

  • Search Organizations or Bodies Related to Your Topic

 

Go to your favorite search engine to look for bodies related to the mental health problem you suffer from. In most cases, these organizations provide online support groups via their websites. Also, your mental health provider may recommend an organization to help you.

 

  • Visit MentalHealthAmerica.net. 

 

This website contains valuable activities for adults, resources and tools to help you get the support you want. As well as providing mental health advice and screening tools, the website also offers help for those that want support groups and providers in their areas. 

 

  • Learn Good Mannerisms for Posting on forums or discussion boards

 

Before you start posting, you should ask your health care provider about the etiquette for posting on online support groups. Don’t be judgmental, and avoid commenting rudely because those that join support groups do so because they want help. If you hurt them further, you are only setting them back as far as their recovery is concerned. Above all, make sure that you stick to the prescribed group therapy activities.

Conclusion

Finding the right support group is critical for treating your mental health problem. Before you do so, know what your needs are, and the type of facilitator you want. Once you’ve decided on what you want, the next step is to determine whether to join online group therapy activities or in-person sessions. Whatever you choose, there are limitless resources on finding the perfect support group.

 

If you or your loved one is struggling with mental health, you can trust the Kentucky Mental Health Clinic to bail you out. With qualified psychiatrists and therapists, and engaging activities for adults, we provide counseling in all types of mental health disorders. Whether you have bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, or any other type of mental health issue, you can trust us to cover your back. 

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