Support Groups

Overview

A support group is a gathering of people who share a common health condition, personal experience, or caregiving role. They meet to share information, advice, and emotional support in a safe and understanding environment.

Support groups are widely available and used by millions of people around the world for many different health and life challenges.

Anyone affected by a health condition – including patients, family members, and caregivers – can join a support group. Some groups are designed for specific conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or anxiety.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling alone or misunderstood because of a health issue
• Wanting practical tips from people who have dealt with the same thing
• Looking for a safe space to talk about emotions
• Needing encouragement to keep up with treatment or lifestyle changes

Symptoms in children

• Children and teenagers may benefit from groups for chronic illness, bullying, or family changes.
• They may show they need support through changes in mood, behaviour, or sleep.
• Support groups for young people are often age-specific and use activities or peer conversations.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may join groups to cope with loneliness, chronic disease, grief, or caregiving.
• They may prefer groups with accessible formats, such as telephone or online meetings.
• Support groups can help older adults stay connected and learn new ways to manage daily challenges.

Causes

Main causes

• People join support groups for many reasons, such as living with a chronic condition, coping with a new diagnosis, or caring for a loved one.
• Some people join to connect with others who truly understand their situation.
• Others join to learn coping strategies or to give back by supporting others.

Risk factors

• Feelings of isolation or lack of a strong social network
• A condition that affects everyday life, such as chronic pain or a serious illness
• Being a caregiver for someone with a long-term health issue

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you feel you cannot keep yourself safe, seek emergency care immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are struggling to cope with a health condition, talk with your healthcare provider about whether a support group might help.
• Ask your doctor, nurse, or local health service for recommendations about reputable support groups near you.

Diagnosis

Support groups are not diagnosed. Instead, a person may be referred by a healthcare provider or can choose to join on their own.

Tests that may be done

• There are no tests for joining a support group.
• You can ask your doctor, local health service, community centre, or a trusted patient organisation for group suggestions.

What to expect at your appointment

In most support groups, a facilitator guides the discussion. You can choose to simply listen or share as much or as little as you like. There is no pressure to speak.

Treatment

Support groups are not a treatment, but they complement medical care by offering emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.

Self-care at home

• Practice good self-care, such as staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep.
• Reach out to your support group between meetings if you feel you need extra encouragement.

Medical treatments

Support groups do not replace prescribed treatments, therapies, or medications. Always follow the advice of your qualified healthcare provider regarding your medical care.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable – surgery is not related to joining a support group.

Living with this condition

In a support group, you can learn from others who live with similar challenges, which can make daily life feel more manageable and less stressful.

Lifestyle tips

• Attend meetings regularly if possible to build meaningful connections.
• Be open to hearing different viewpoints and experiences.
• If it feels safe, connect with group members outside meetings for extra support.

Diet and exercise

While support groups themselves do not focus on diet and exercise, members often share tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle that suits your specific condition. Always check with your healthcare provider before making major changes.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Support groups can improve mental health by reducing loneliness, boosting self-confidence, and giving you a sense of belonging.

Prevention

Support groups cannot prevent illness, but they can help prevent or reduce feelings of isolation, depression, and burnout.

Complications

If left untreated

• Without proper support, you may feel more isolated or overwhelmed.
• You might have a harder time coping with your condition or sticking to your care plan.

Long-term outlook

With the right support group, many people find comfort, confidence, and practical strategies to live well. You are not alone, and help is available.

Find support

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