Finding a group to support you

You’ve probably seen support groups in movies — the circle of chairs, cups of tea, and the box of tissues. But what are they really like, and how can they help?

We speak to Rebecca Smith, from Carers NSW to find out.

What is a support group?

Support groups bring together people with a shared lived experience. They provide a safe space for members to talk openly and share practical advice to help navigate challenges.

Rebecca describes peer support groups for carers as “a place to arrive just as they are, where others will have some understanding of their experiences as a carer, without that need to explain themselves”.

“Support groups bring together people with a shared lived experience,” Rebecca says.

What types of support groups are available?

Groups vary, from in-person meetings to online groups. They can be run by a health professional or a lived-experience facilitator. They may form as part of a health service or a not-for-profit organisation, or from the ground up by members.

“Not all groups look the same,” says Rebecca. They may be focused on discussion, education, or social connection and wellbeing. Rebecca tells us about a vibrant carer support group that meets in an art gallery. She also tells us about groups where members push themselves to try new activities, such as poetry and sound healing.

“The best support groups are shaped by the carers themselves,” says Rebecca. “It’s more likely to be relevant and meaningful to the people attending.”

What are the benefits of being part of a support group?

When used alongside health services, support groups offer many benefits.

Emotional support

It can be powerfully affirming to feel seen and heard by those with first-hand understanding. “Carers often say they feel lighter, more connected, less alone, better able to support themselves and the person they care for by attending the group,” Rebecca tells Bridge.

Managing health care

Studies have found that people who attend support groups are better able to manage their or their loved ones’ health care. This can help people take a more active role in care, speak up for themselves or their loved one and achieve better health outcomes.

Quality of life

Research shows that support groups can help improve quality of life. Groups provide regular socialisation and create community based on belonging. “We all have a basic human need to connect with our peers at different life stages. It helps us to manage, and supports our wellbeing,” says Rebecca.

Self-understanding

Connection with others may also help you gain a better understanding of yourself. This may include your needs, strengths, or your way of handling difficulties. You may also find that talking about your challenges helps you gain clarity and put together a plan to tackle them.

Personal growth

Involvement in a peer support group can also lead to personal growth. Rebecca has observed members taking on leadership roles in the group as they grow in confidence.

Low-cost support

With the cost of living rising, it is refreshing to find that support groups are low-cost. Some groups may require a small fee, while others may be completely free.

What to consider when choosing the right support group

Consider practical aspects such as ease of access — will you be able to attend regularly? Are there changes to make or supports to put in place to help with this?

First-meeting nerves aside, did you feel comfortable in the group? Did the facilitator help everyone feel welcome, valued and heard?

Does the group have guidelines and boundaries to help keep it running smoothly? Rebecca explains, “a good support group will have a group agreement. It should cover things such as confidentiality, respect for differences and that everyone gets a chance to speak if they choose.”

Where to look for the right group

Continence issues affect us at all stages of life due to a variety of reasons.

You may find a group connected to a particular aspect of your health journey or a more general support group.

Rebecca’s tips for taking the first step:

• It’s normal to feel nervous and a bit uncertain.
• You can chat with the facilitator beforehand to let them know if you have any specific needs.
• There is no pressure to share personal information — it’s okay to just listen the first few times.
• It’s okay to try a few groups to find the right fit.
• If it’s hard for you to attend a group, online groups offer ease of access.
• You don’t need to be struggling to benefit from a group.

Places to find support groups include:

• Your local GP
• Search online
• Your health care team such as nurses, social workers and psychologists
• Local community centres and notice boards
• Not-for-profit organisations specific to you or your loved one’s condition, such as Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia, MS Australia, BEAT Bladder Cancer and many more.

If you are unable to find a group that meets your needs, you may like to start one. There is a handy starter guide available from the Carers NSW website.

You could be surprised by what a support group can offer. As Rebecca tells us, “A lot of carers say they wish they had joined sooner and leave the group feeling so pleased that they took that step.”

Also in this edition

• Carer of the Year
• Mad about materials
• A day in the life of someone with neurogenic urinary retention
• What is neurogenic urinary retention?
• Looking after your bowels in hospital
• Disabilities: talking to your GP about incontinence
• Is health advice from TikTok or ChatGPT better?
• Alcohol and incontinence – what’s the connection?