Support Groups: Someone In My Life Struggles With ____, Where Can I/They Go?

October 7, 2020 Grayson Wallen

There are lots of kinds of support, different groups will facilitate different types of support for those who attend. There are thousands of actual support meetings happening as you read this throughout the world, even during COVID times. Most of them are digital, but with some research and diligence, you may even find a group in person in your area of the world.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular types of support groups and descriptors for who this group is generally for:

Anonymous (Alcoholic’s/Narcotic’s/Sex Addict’s/Hoarder’s/Over Eater’s) model of groups focus on a single step within the 12 Steps or work on the 12 Steps collectively as the group works to understand their recovery individually as well as collectively. People who are working to find or maintain any form of sobriety would be able to come to and participate in these meetings. There are endless groups for specific addictive behaviors or tendencies, so looking for support with your specific type of addiction is likely available.

Al-Anon meetings are for people who are effected by someone else's addictive behaviors. Members looking for support as they support their loved one in recovery without over-functioning, generally have great success with these groups. Al-Anon emphasizes group members to resist co-dependence and find support in other people as well as within the person's strengths to endure the long road of recovery.

Special interest groups are for people with hobbies. Now, with this not being a traditional “I struggle with ___ like everyone else in this meeting”, the practice of having fun and developing a hobby is an excellent way to ward off triggers and boost coping. That sounds a lot like support to me!

Aftercare or mental health support groups are for people who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition and are seeking aftercare or support after their hospitalization or intensive outpatient programming. Many mental health hospitals have an Aftercare program that supports the patient and their support networks in ways that endorse mental health, connection, and understanding. In the past, I have helped facilitate these groups and it has been an enriching experience for those I have seen attend.

Here is a list of links that could be helpful in your search for healing, change, and support:

Too Long/Didn’t Read: Support groups offer support. If you are needing support in your life, check out these links or reach out for a free call to see how counseling can help you personally.

Disclaimer: Grayson’s credentials are noted in the footer below. This blog post is not intended to replace therapy or counseling services. While this post may represent psychoeducational content that brings clarity or helps you personally, Grayson encourages you to process your findings and concerns with your mental health counselor and/or other trusted people in your life. If you have questions, comments, or concerns about the content of this post, or want to start counseling please contact Grayson directly.

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