Tuesday, July 15, 2014

How To Set Up A Psychiatric Health Support Group

By Marylou Forbes


It can often be difficult for groups to figure out a date, time and place for meet-ups. Setting a specific day each month like the 3rd Saturday or 2nd Sunday for a Psychiatric Health Support Group or other ongoing meeting is often a good idea. By having the event on a specific day rather than date, members can better coordinate and avoid conflicts in scheduling.

Some meet on a weekly basis while others meet on a monthly or bi-monthly basis. Determining a schedule which works well for all participants is often one of the hardest aspects of this work. This is especially true for individuals who also work full or part-time jobs in conjunction with therapy.

Another important aspect is to allow enough time for each individual to speak. It can often be beneficial to use a speaking stick or stone. A speaking stick or stone is a shared object with whom the only one holding the object at the time has the right speak.

Declaring a moderator or leader for one or all sessions is also key. Often one or two individuals provide this service. The individuals can be from outside or members of the group. A moderator or leader generally provides an introduction, has each individual in attendance provide a brief introduction, then monitors the ongoing discussions and exercises.

The focus of support can either be the group or an individual. Generally, group therapy is offered with individuals who have had the same or similar experiences. Individual therapy can range widely and incorporate as many different issues as the individual and care provider feel beneficial.

Individuals prone to violent outbreaks are often treated in a hospital setting and restrained but can still attend group meetings. It is hoped that this work in group can help treat the individual so one can once again perform peacefully and respectfully while in public. Depending on the individual, the issues and any residual illnesses, this may or may not be possible.

Safety and security, whether meeting at a residence, business, clinic or hospital are of utmost importance. While some support groups may not need additional security beyond members, those with individuals prone to violence often need professional security present at meetings. This is to help both the organizers and participants keep a safe and sane environment during each meeting.

While the essence of a group may be to gain and provide support to other like minded individuals, organizers may also want to consider social outings. This is because it can often be good for individuals, especially those with anxiety or depression to interact with others. By sharing a trip to an amusement park, movie, theater or zoo, participants can get to know more about one another and the world at large.

It is often recommended individuals with mental health issues inquire as to whether participating in a shared setting may be beneficial. If so, then it is important to combine any new activities with other ongoing treatment. After which, the individual can decide whether to continue ongoing treatment or participate in external support networks.




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