Today I wanted to share some thoughts about why it’s important for you to find a support group for special needs parents. We can sometimes feel like we need to do all of the things, all of the time. And we feel like we have to do it all by ourselves. But, that’s not the case! Having a support group can be a lifeline for you. And I’m hoping this blog post will help you realise this today.
What is a Support Group?
The dictionary quotes that a support group is “a group of people with common experiences or concerns who provide each other with encouragement, comfort, and advice.“
Why Should I Join a Support Group?
There are so many positives for joining a support group. Today, I’m going to share just a few of those benefits with you;
- The support group will have people with similar situations to you in there. They’ll have experienced similar situations.
- You’ll feel comfortable to share your personal experiences – as others have been through the same things too.
- Your support group will have people who may be able to offer you tips, advice and support for your situation.
- They can help you to feel less alone in your situation.
- And the group can provide you with strategies to use. And these can be really helpful if you’re feeling a little out of control in your life.
- You’ll be able to get things off your chest. It can be mentally draining to keep everything in your mind and close to your chest. Being able to open up and share your inner thoughts and feelings can take a lot of pressure off yourself.
- There’s the opportunity for you to compare notes and information. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking for doctors, therapists, interventions, resources etc. It’s always good to be able to have a personal recommendation for something you are looking into.
Where Can I Find a Support Group?
The beauty of this day and age is that you can find support groups anywhere and everywhere. Don’t have time to attend one in person? Join an online community! Where you can pop online when you have time.
- Google – you can find local support groups in your area from just a quick Google search.
- Charities – speak to local charities for autism or specific needs. Ask them if they can recommend any support groups or meetings that you can attend.
- Facebook – like I mentioned above. If you don’t have time to attend a group in person, you can attend a session online. There’s lots of groups on Facebook that you can join, they could be autism parenting groups, special education groups. And you can go on here to ask questions, get advice and find out information.
- Doctor – ask your doctor if they can recommend any local support groups. Or if they can refer you to any.
Are you a member of a support group for special needs parents? Do you have any experiences of support groups that you can share?
Support groups aren’t just for parents/families either. You can join them as a teacher too! Teachers need help and support too. And there’s often times when we want to ask questions, or need some advice. And Facebook groups are great for this. Being able to communicate with others in the same field, who are experiencing similar – or even the same – situations that you are.
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