A support group can be a refuge and a wonderful support and influence for women. Women are sometimes scared to make the first step, and it can be a scary thing. If you take your time and look properly, you will find a group that is suitable for you, and one that fits your needs. Support groups and women can go hand in hand to help women get the strength to live and overcome obstacles. Support groups have women from all walks of life and social backgrounds coming together for a common cause. These groups can be the hem that puts the string back together that life tore apart.

A lot of times, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may be dealing with similar situations who, in turn, help us be better (www.mentalhealthamerica.net). A lot of women think that no one understands what they are going through, and that no one can relate to their situation. That is the furthest thing from the truth. There are hundreds of thousands of women in the world, and we are all going to go through something in our lifetime.

It is such a wonderful thing when women feel others can relate to their situation and identify with them more. A lot of times, this will help women have their breakthroughs and deal with obstacles that have been plaguing them. When women have their breakthrough, and they feel that someone understands them, then they are more susceptible to be inspired and inspire others. They are no longer afraid to share their story anymore, because they know now that there are women that identify with their situation. They now know when they share, people can use what they are sharing, and apply it to their own lives.

There are certain factors and things that you should consider when joining and looking for a support group. Each support group is different, and everyone perceives things differently. Always remember to give yourself time to adapt to the group, and understand the group’s mission. You always want a group that you can identify with and that meets your emotional and mental needs. The Mayo Clinic describes some of them below:

• When you join a new support group, you may be nervous about sharing personal issues with people you don’t know. At first, you may benefit from simply listening. Over time, however, contributing your own ideas and experiences may help you get more out of a support group.
• Try a support group for a few weeks. If it doesn’t feel like a good fit for you, consider a different support group or a different support group format.
• Remember that a support group isn’t a substitute for regular medical care. Let your doctor know that you’re participating in a support group. If you don’t think a support group is appropriate for you, but you need help coping with your condition or situation, talk to your doctor about counseling or other types of therapy (www.mayoclinic.org).

When you are in a support group, there are ways to get the most out of support groups and really use them to influence your life and the things that you are going through. Did you know that you can influence someone’s life with your presence, actions, and the words that you say? If we can help someone in the same situation work and improve themselves, then that should be our goal. We can even help ourselves in the process.

Also, seeing people going through the same issues and situations gives us motivation that we can make it through ourselves. They fought and did it, so why can’t I? This is a huge inspiration and motivational aspect for women rebuilding their lives.

Again, when you join a new support group, you may be nervous about sharing personal issues with people you don’t know. Over time, however, contributing your own ideas and experiences may help you get more out of a support group. It is not always easy to bare your soul and love yourself in the same process. It is hard to share everything, and especially worrying about the thoughts and judgements of others. Please give yourself time to adjust and find one that can be a healthy addition for yourself and your emotions.

There are various ways to find support groups in your area. The most common way is Google support groups, and then Google will use your area to pull up local groups. You can also check the Local Mental Health America Affiliate, and that group/website will show you support groups also.

If there is an emergency, and you need to talk to someone immediately, you can always call 1-800-273-TALK, or text MHA to 741741 (www.mentalhealthamerica.net). There are always options if you need to talk to someone immediately. These cases do not always happen, but they do come up in certain circumstances. Always know there is a listening and caring ear out there for you, should you ever need it.

Safe Harbor International Ministries also has a Facebook support group for survivors of domestic violence called Angels in Recovery. This group is for individuals recovering from domestic violence, family violence, and abusive relationships. You are not alone in your recovery process. Please feel free to join our group from anywhere in the world. It is safe and confidential, and a place where you will not be judged, but loved. To join our group, please go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/anglesinrecovery.

By Diana Ashworth
Edited by Marquetta Smith, Executive Director of Safe Harbor IM