Virtual Support groups

Dealing with a new illness, a family member with a new illness or disability, or even suffering from an addiction or feeling that you are alone in an unforgiving situation, is not uncommon. Many people are going through similar situations, or even worse situations. Support groups are safe spaces that people can attend, to talk through these difficult situations and find additional strength to manage or get through the problem. Many of these groups are not available in certain areas, are too far away, or there is some other factor that prevents people from attending this much needed experience. With technology however, this has been fixed.

Social media, blogs, smartphone apps, web chat rooms, and discussion boards have all opened the door to a new way of communicating with other people. Because of this there is continuous availability of support groups which can be accessed at any time. Not all these groups require video, which gives the individual more privacy and the option to remain anonymous. Traveling is also not an issue, which makes it more cost efficient and increases attendance to promote quality of the experience. Accessing these means of communication with usernames instead of real names and using secured network at home, are all great ways to maintain confidentiality as well.

Some support groups I have discovered are as follows:

Alpha-1 Virtual Support Groups (contains 4 groups for those who are parents of a child diagnosed with alpha-1 liver disease, caregiver of someone with it, pre and post liver transplant, and everyone in the community)

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance – Group for those suffering from depression or Bipolar disorder, and also for family and friends of people suffering from it.

ADDA– Group for people affected with ADHD and those who know someone with ADHD to better understand the disease. 3 different groups available.

Online Intergroup: Alcoholics Anonymous– Online forums and other formats for those suffering with an alcohol addiction, and those suffering from one such as family of the addicted.

References

6 major benefits of online support groups. (2017, August 2). Retrieved from https://www.nuemd.com/news/2017/08/02/6-major-benefits-online-support-groups