Blogging from A-Z: G is for Group Therapy and Support Groups

I’m taking a side step for this post. While I am not covering mental health itself, I am still covering something mental health related: Group Therapy and Support Groups.

The name itself is enough to leave me shivering in extreme distaste. I wasn’t always like that, though. Once upon a time I enjoyed going to AlaTeen meetings. There was camaraderie and understanding there. It helped when I needed it. The thought of group therapy now, though, hits all my social anxiety buttons. Nope, not happening. But just because I can’t/won’t do group therapy it doesn’t mean that group therapy is bad. I am actually siding for it, and the benefits it gives.

First of all, let me explain what group therapy is:

• Run by one or more therapists
• Group of 3 or more people with a common problem/goal
• Has the purpose of coming together to share experiences and different views

A Support Group is:

• Normally run by those who have been with the group/organization for long time
• Group of 3 or more people
• Has the purpose of coming together to share experiences and different views

So, basically, a support group is group therapy without a degree. Both groups normally have an anonymity clause of some sort, and a “what happens here stays here” clause. These groups normally contain people from varying backgrounds, social classes, ages, etc. This is to provide a greater view of different approaches to the problem(s) at hand. The people will also be at varying stages in their treatment.

What benefits will group therapy or support groups provide?

1. Hope. The realization that you are not alone, there are others in similar situations, and life can improve. When members new in therapy witness how the members who have been in therapy for a while are still going, it gives that sense of hope, it empowers them. Hope is a powerful ally in dealing with any mental illness (or addiction). Hope leads to strength and courage.


2. Friendship and camaraderie. Not only are you not alone, but the very people in that group often grow to be great friends. It is not uncommon to have exchange of phone numbers or e-mail addresses so that they can support one another. Again, this builds on that all important hope.


3. Different view points. Not everyone approaches a problem the same way. What works for you may not work for another. At the same time, if what you are doing isn’t working, perhaps taking a different viewpoint may help.


4. Confidence. This goes in hand with the above point, when your approach works for another person when other approaches have failed, it boosts your confidence. When you are more confident, it tends to rub off on others creating an avalanche effect.


5. Accountability. We all need it in one way or another. We need someone to hold us accountable for our actions, and to be there to lead us back on track. No one is perfect, but knowing that someone will be there to guide you back helps.


6. Improved social skills. Its hard for those with mental health issues or addictions sometimes. Group therapy and support groups help to build on social skills.

Each group is going to run a little different than the other, simply because each has different individuals with different needs. It is completely natural to go to one support group in one town, and have a completely different experience with a the same group in a different town.

There is no true set pattern towards “recovery” for all support groups and group therapies. This is simply because each type of group has different needs. A group of people trying to recover from bipolar is going to need different things than a group recovering from gambling addiction. This is not to say that a person can only go to one group, either. (Although I suggest taking it one at a time unless you have the support of a degreed professional.) Some programs use a 12 step recovery method, some use textbooks, others are more free form.

Whatever you decide to do, I encourage to seek professional help. Support groups and group therapies are there, however, to help you move through recovery and into self-management. They are a tool much as medication and one-on-one therapy is.

Disclaimer: I am not a therapist. I have not taken any classes, nor do I have a degree. I am writing this from my standpoint based on my personal experiences and research. I beg of you, if you think you may have an addiction or mental health issue, please seek help from a licensed doctor.

No matter what, suicide is not an option. If you are thinking of harming yourself, seek help. Talk to a doctor, go to the ER, or even call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1 (800) 273-8255