Browse Sections

Online Support Groups

Introduction

Finding the support that you are looking for can become frustrating as you join a group only to realize that it is not offering you what you need. In today's world of computers and the Internet, the problem may not be in finding an online support group, but in finding one that meets your needs. The best way to have your needs met is to create your own online support group that will allow you to meet others with the same needs.

An online support group can be tailored to any subject including; medical issues, work issues, parenting issues, and special interests. A support group is a group of individuals that have come together to share information, understanding, and support about a specific topic or interest. That topic can be pregnancy after age 36, rebuilding a 1955 Chevy, or about single parenting. The main point is that if you want a support group about a specific topic, there are probably several others that would join you.

Finding others in your community that share your interests or are looking for the same support that you are, can be difficult. However, finding others online is much easier and does not limit you or them to one small grouping of individuals.

In this course, we will look at the variety of ways a support group can be created, what it takes to make an effective group, how to let others know that your group is available, and how to run the group so it is as supportive as possible and benefits the members. This information can also help a person that is looking for a good group, but either does not have the time to commit to creating one, or does not want the responsibility.

By knowing what a good support group consists of, you will be able to either create your own specialized group, or find an effective group that will offer you what you need.

Lessons

Click here to see course syllabus

Lessons

Lesson 1: Components of an Effective Group
Lesson 2: Building the Group
Lesson 3: Getting Members To Join Your Group
Lesson 4: Managing an Online Support Group