Tuesday, 22 July 2014

How To Set Up A Psychiatric Health Support Group

By Marylou Forbes


Several steps are involved when it comes to developing and organizing a support network. Determining meeting days, times and topics, finding a space and organizing outings are only a few when it comes to establishing a Psychiatric Health Support Group. Setting up security measures and assuring all participants are safe during, before and after meetings are also essential as related to mental health.

When selecting a location, meeting on a monthly, bi-monthly or weekly basis can also make a difference. Those wishing to meet once a month may want to try and obtain a venue which can offer more privacy and longer meetings. Others may want to meet in restaurants or coffee shops depending on the intensity of issues being discussed. Participants prone to verbal or violent behavior will most likely want to attend sessions at a local clinic or hospital to avoid potential outbreaks in a public venue.

Location is also an important element when coordinating with others. The locale needs to be convenient and within an easy drive or accessible by public transportation. Some organizers may go so far as to request a specific length of commitment from members to assure individuals are sincere.

Whether a mental health or social networking support group, a moderator is often a good idea. While often required when working with mentally unstable individuals, those attending outside support groups may want to be careful to consider others when speaking of personal experience. This is because sometimes what someone else experiences can have either a positive or negative effect on the psychological health of others which can in some instances cause an outbreak.

There are some issues which may require a dedicated group related to a specific issue. A good example may be that of sexual abuse or incest. Often those dealing with these issues do best when opportunities exist to share with others who have had the same or similar experiences.

While it is often more difficult for individuals prone to severe violence to participate, there are some hospital and clinic groups and sessions which make this possible. To locate one in the area, call a local counselor, psychiatrist or psychologist office and ask if anyone knows of a mental health support network in the area.

It may also be necessary to hire security if renting a private room or meeting in a residence to assure the safety of all participants. In the best of situations, participants can provide this extra level of security. Regardless, it is essential that there are those who can aid in doing so during these type meetings.

Social outings as well as regular meetings can often help individuals with mental health issues become more self-confident. Most often, those undergoing psychiatric treatment are also involved in some form of therapy. Some individuals prefer private one-on-one counseling while others find sharing a great add-on to traditional psychiatric care.

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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