Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Developing 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.

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.

While there are some individuals that can be rehabilitated away from violence, there are also others who can not. For those who can, support is often at the forefront of success. Individuals who can not break away from violent behavior can often still find solace during therapy sessions set within a prison or hospital setting.

When it comes to safety and security, it is often best to have outside individuals perform this task. Still, whether a member, members, or an outside security team, there does need to be some form of peacekeeping at any mental health oriented seminar, support meeting or workshop.

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.

Every individual reacts differently to social work or therapy. Support while often not official treatment can add a great deal of joy and happiness. Learning social behavior during sessions and outings can also help in overcoming issues with daily routines, social environments and other mental health issues.




About the Author:



No comments: