Organizing 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 in a coffee shop, restaurant, residence, hospital or clinic, a moderator is often a good idea. Some discussions can often become volatile without intention especially during moments of disagreement. A moderator can often help keep the peace even amidst these outbreaks of disagreement.

When setting up a date for each meeting, it is often best to make it a certain day of the month rather than date. For example, the group meets on the 3rd Saturday each month. By doing so, individuals can mark their calendars months, even years in advance without having to have a specific month, date and year and always know when a meeting is scheduled.

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.

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.

Each individual reacts differently when participating in these situations. Some participants may find this shared work quite enjoyable and useful. While others want no part in sharing any aspect of pain with others. Each individual must decide for oneself whether one prefers individual therapy, sharing issues and experiences with others, or both.




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