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.  Connecting with others who understand what they are going through is both comforting and empowering. We will cover topics, skills, and strategies through a combination of ACTIVITIES AND DISCUSSION.

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 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

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Testimonials

"Being in a group with other kids whose parents were alcoholics was a breath of fresh air in my early teens. Fifteen years later, I still remember some of the tools I learned and the discussions we had - it was transformative. I never knew anyone else dealing with addiction in their family before being in this group. It gave me a strong sense of community, which was crucial, as I always felt like an outsider because of my family problems. To this day, I still keep in touch with a few friends I made in this group, and we support each other around these same topics. Writing this made me so happy and so grateful for the impact on my life." ~ Payton

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"My daughter was part of a support group, which provided a safe environment for kids to openly talk about their home or family situations that were hard to understand. As a single dad, I welcomed the opportunity for her to be able to talk about issues that might have been uncomfortable for her to discuss with me. Her mom was struggling with severe drug and alcohol issues. She desperately loved her daughter and was involved in her life, but we agreed our daughter was better off living with me. I believe this group provided just what my daughter needed...and at a time she needed it most. While my daughter never shared specifics with me, it was clear that the group provided her great comfort knowing that other kids had burdens of their own...that she wasn't alone. I am proud of my daughter and thankful that support was there when she needed it most." ~ John (Parent of Group Member)​​​​​

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"This support group helped me understand that other families are experiencing [hard things] too. Even if that family or person looks like they have the perfect life on the outside, they could be struggling, so be kind and listen if they open up to you. I became aware of my environment and the future life choices I can control in order to not follow in certain footsteps. I would absolutely recommended this group. I met my best friend and connected with many others who were there for me." ~Anonymous