How do I Develop a Mental Health Peer Support Group?
In a peer support group, members interact as equals. This differs from the relationship between a patient and a professional. Members find comfort in knowing they are not alone, and these groups often provide a safe place for people to open up. Some struggling with mental health may not have the support of family or friends, so these groups provide a vital base of support. Developing your own mental health peer support group will take time, dedication and organization.
Instructions
Pick a focus. Support groups can focus on general mental health or a more specific category such as eating disorders or depression. Select a name for your group.
Find a place to meet. Locations might vary depending on availability in your community, but meetings should be conducted in a safe, comfortable place. Try your local library, community center, churches, YMCA or schools. The location should be wheelchair accessible. Decide whether you will conduct meetings on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or other regular basis.
Set ground rules. Confidentiality should be toward the top of your list. Then create an agenda. This may change each meeting, or you can use the same one as a base to get meetings started. You may want to include time for introductions, time to pass out literature, any group business such as projects or decision-making and of course, a block of time for support discussion.
Select roles for group members. Nominate a facilitator to help keep the group focused. Other optional roles include taking minutes, coordinating snacks and refreshments, and keeping time.
Announce your group to the community. Create a website that lists the group's purpose. Send out e-mails, flyers and press releases to other local groups, newspapers and businesses to help get the word out. Make sure to provide contact information.