DASI  Choosing a support group

Questions to ask yourself

• Did you hear about the group from a trustworthy source?
• Do you know enough about the group to decide whether to attend?
• When was the group formed?
• Is it accepting new members?
• Where does the group meet?
• When does the group meet?
• How long are the meetings?
• How often does the group meet?
• How many people usually attend?
• Is the group linked with any programme?
• Is the group linked with any organizations?
• Is the group confidential?
• What happens at these meetings?
• What is discussed?
• Who facilitates these meetings?
• Can others attend these meetings with you?

• Any other question which occurs to you.

                Questions to ask yourself after attending your first meeting.

Please answer all questions yes or no.

• Did the meeting help you feel good about yourself?
• Could it help you with your coping strategies?
• Did it help you feel less helpless?
• Did it help you feel less alone?
• Did you feel supported by the others?
• Did you find it informative?
• Did it help you to learn more?
• Do you feel that your symptoms have improved or been made easier?
• Did you receive encouragement from others?
• Did you feel comfortable at the meeting?
• Do you feel better about attending the next meeting?

If most answers are YES – then you have found a good group. If NO – then you have not. But don’t worry. Sometimes it takes time to find the ideal group for you.