Why Attend a Support Group Meeting?

The purpose of a support group is sharing with and supporting another for the mutual benefit of the total group. Some essential elements of a support group are:

• active, involved listening to Others and being heard by them
• the sensing that others care
• receiving and giving an opportunity to be really understood
• meeting and accepting the needs of Others
• a two-way street, giving & getting among members
• providing an atmosphere where positive and negative views can be expressed without being judged or labeled
• an awareness of common needs and strengths
• an opportunity to get in touch with oneself
• a place to find courage and to take risks

(Taken from BIA of Illinois)