The Support Group Experience
Too often, youth may be inclined to hide emotional challenges. A support group offers them a safe place among peers to see that they are not alone in their life experiences. We will cover topics, skills, and strategies through a combination of ACTIVITIES AND DISCUSSION.
BEING PART OF A SUPPORT GROUP CAN:
*Decrease the sense of isolation and stigma they may feel
*Normalize the choice to receive help and support
*Create a sense of belonging
*Teach and model healthy coping skills
*Encourage communication and provide "real life" practice
*Help them form a support system
SPECIFIC GROUP CONTENT
"In Pieces to Peace" - For Youth Experiencing Family Change
*Loss and Grief
*Expressing and Coping with Emotions
*Communication Skills
*Identifying Needs and Setting Boundaries
*Coping with Stress
*Self-Care Strategies
*Creating a "New Normal"
"You Can Cope" - For Youth in Families Impacted by Addiction / Substance Abuse
*Family Relationships
*Learning to Break Silence and Express Feelings
*Family Roles and "Rules"
*"It's Not Your Fault"
*Identifying Needs and Setting Boundaries
*Breaking the Cycle
*Coping Skills & Self-Care Strategies
"Relating & Re-Engaging" - Coming Out of Social Isolation
*Creating Safety / The Group as a "Testing Ground"
*Seeing Your Worth
*Identifying and Challenging Barriers
*Social Anxieties and Fears
*Skills for Connecting
*Setting Goals, Setbacks, and Moving Forward