Self-help groups and organizations vary in their form and activities. Together members decide on the composition, structure and procedures of their group. They may ormay not draw on a prepared and tested format.
There may be a single leader, co-leader or rotating leadership of the group. A person who has faced the concern in question may be available to provide support by telephone between meetings.
Group membership is generally free or, at most, involves a contribution to help cover costs.
Meetings may be open to all that are interested or may be limited to members only.
Professionals may be involved in the start up phase of a new group, or act as a resource to the group. Some groups prefer to have no professional involvement.
As a member of a self-help group you can:
- Share support, information, friendship and strength;
- Experience a decrease in feelings of isolation and loneliness;
- Learn not to feel guilty about your feelings;
- Grow in self-confidence and self-esteem as you, in turn, help others;
- Develop a sense of hope from hearing how others are coping;
- Share practical hints on managing day-to-day concerns.
The "Directory of Self-Help Groups in Durham Region" is a publication of the CMHA - Durham Branch. It is a listing of self-help groups such as depression self-help groups, addictives self-help groups, caregiver self-help groups, etc. For more information on this publication please call (905) 436 - 8760 ext. 107
Looking for a self help group? Would you like to start up a self-help group and require some assistance? Would you like to purchase a self-help start up kit? Would you like your name added to the CMHA- Durham Self-Help Directory? The contact the Education & Training Program at (905) 436-8760 ext. 107
