Did You Know That There Are A Large Number Of Depression Support Groups In The World?
Everyone knows that there are many people with depression, but did you know that there are a large number of depression support groups in the world? Some people feel very alone when they struggle with this. It's comforting to know that there are so many people who want to help and offer hope.
Bloggers such as myself, who often write about mental health, all do our part to provide information, resources and inspiration for those who need it most. An article I wrote this past year on depression support groups can be found here: http://www.blogger.com/profile/09183411832112787788
Many people wish that they could find a support group for depression, but don't know where to begin. It is not an easy thing to talk about, but I am always willing to help anyone who asks. Depression support groups are a great place to begin because it's a safe place where you don't have to hide anything from the members of the group and everyone understands what you're going through.
I would like to start off by saying that if you're looking for a support group, it's best to find one that is a good fit. It's not a good idea to join a group where all the members are depressed, as you will end up feeling judged based on your situation. Also, it's not always easy for people to talk about depression, but if you can find a safe environment and have people who will be there for you through the good times and bad times, it can truly make all the difference.
Even though depression support groups are great for those who struggle with mental health issues, there are also many benefits for family members and caretakers of those who suffer from depression or any other mental illness. In some instances, family members feel like they are the only ones who see the person that they love suffering and it can be difficult for them to be alone with their emotions. A support group is a great place for family members and caretakers to find information and make connections with others who have gone through the same things or similar situations.
Another benefit of depression support groups is that members can get together in person if they choose. This is a great option for people who would like to meet face-to-face and develop friendships with others who have similar interests. It's interesting how friendships can form so easily when people are in the same boat, if you will.
A great place to find depression support groups is on the Internet. The Depression Coalition of America website offers an online directory that provides a list of depression support groups in your community. It's also a good idea to search for depression support groups on other websites as well, such as Myspace. MySpace has become a great way to find friends who are going through similar situations, because it's so easy to connect with someone you know. Also, many colleges and universities offer free counseling services so you might want to check there too.
Depression support groups can be found near you or through your local hospital or mental health clinic. The same holds true for online support groups. Women's shelters, homeless shelters and community health centers are places you can start looking to find depression support groups as well. If you're looking for a church-based group, there are many to choose from. I have actually found that some churches offer a variety of different support groups in one place. Keep in mind that any website or business that you're interested in should not have a fee associated with it. You should also get a sense of the group environment when you visit or call the group organizer, just so you know what your expectations are before joining or attending on a regular basis.
One of the most important things to remember about depression support groups is that you can't force yourself to join one, attend a certain number of meetings in a month or force yourself to be someone you're not. If you feel like a group isn't a good fit for you then it's best to continue your search for another support group. Remember, the goal of a depression support group is to help people with depression and not make them feel badly about their situation or their way of thinking. It's important that people find safe places where they can speak openly and honestly about their struggles with others who understand where they are coming from.
Here's to finding a support group that is right for you!
Thank you for reading this article on depression support groups, please feel free to share your thoughts.
Kimberly Huey Johnson is the author of many articles on depression and anxiety. She is also the author of 1st Edition of the book, "Coping with Depression, A Teen's Guide to Understanding Depression and Dealing with Depression." http://www.coping-with-depression-book.com (United States). Her articles can be found on many different depression and anxiety websites, she has also been featured in several magazines including Woman's World Magazine. Kimberly has a blog at http://depressionandanxiety4teens.blogspot.com/ where she writes about depression and anxiety.
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(c) 2010 Kimberly Huey Johnson. All rights reserved worldwide (c) 2010 Kimberly Huey Johnson. All rights reserved worldwide http://www.copyright2010.com/
Kimberly Huey Johnson is the author of 1st Edition of the book, "Coping with Depression, A Teen's Guide to Understanding Depression and Dealing with Depression." http://www.coping-with-depression-book.com (United States). Her articles can be found on many different depression and anxiety websites, she has also been featured in several magazines including Woman's World Magazine. Kimberly has a blog at http://depressionandanxiety4teens.blogspot.com/ where she writes about depression and anxiety. You can read more about Kimberly and her books on http://www.copyright2010.
Conclusion
You have got to admit that it can be difficult for a lot of people to face their fears and try something new. But, one way that you can conquer your fear and try something new is through relationships. Try living a life of solitude and learning by yourself. You will never get the hang of things in this world unless you do as you are told. The easiest way to better your knowledge is through acquiring relationships with family, friends and others. You might be surprised at how much people don't know about depression which they may not talk about because they are so ashamed or afraid to admit that they have the problem.