At first, I was reluctant to attend a support group for families with a loved one with mental health issues, convinced that hearing others’ struggles would only discourage me and bring no comfort to my aching soul. After all, my pain seemed enough. Plus, at the time, I believed in a short few months, we would be through our crises and back to normal. Oh, how little I understood about mental illness. However, it was people like you who helped. Would you like to know how valuable you are when you show up to a support group of people with similar circumstances?
A Friend Who Encouraged
Although I was reluctant to attend, my friend saw my pain and knew the value of rubbing elbows and sharing with those who walked a similar journey. She was kind and persistent in gently suggesting I attend, so I agreed to one meeting.
My First Meeting, I Vowed Never to Return
At the first meeting, I forced myself up the church steps feeling so alone, moving slowly, wishing and pretending this was not my story. Greeted upon entering the room, we all sat in a circle, and the sharing began. Part of what they shared seemed shocking and horrifying that first night.
At the end of the meeting, I rushed to my car, determined never to return, convinced that somehow our family would overcome mental illness and not need a group like this.
I fumbled in the dark parking lot to find my keys. Trying to exit as quickly as possible. I hopped in the driver’s seat, exhaled, and loudly uttered,” No way this club is not for me; I do not belong.”
Facing Reality is Hard
Somehow, I believed our family’s mental illness would go away if I didn’t identify with the wonderful group of caregivers. Avoiding reality seemed the better choice.
Do you ever avoid reality?
As reality set in, I returned to the group. I opened my mind to see every person’s value to the meeting. You, too, are valuable to a group of people struggling with similar issues.
One brave step towards a community that shared similar pain changed me forever— I realized I was not alone. Share on XThe Value of Attending a Support Group
By attending a support group with people who understand our pain, we can find comfort in hearing stories of success and failure. It empowers us to stay the course, even when the outcome isn’t yet certain. We gain perspective when we see how far we have come and encouragement to balance each setback. But for a minute, underestimate your value. However, most important is the realization that we are not alone.
Discover How Valuable You Are When You Show Up?
Please don’t ever underestimate the value of your showing up.
Do you know how valuable you are to a group even if you come and say absolutely nothing?
You have been brave by showing up, which tells others, they are not alone. It’s a subtle demonstration of understanding that their sadness, confusion, or frustration matters.
Do you know how valuable you are when you come and share when things are going well?
Your sharing opens up conversations of hope and possibilities.
Do you know how valuable you are when you show up and are willing to share your failures?
After all, your sharing may avert a massive detour.
Mental Health Support | Do You Know How Valuable You Are? You help us accept; we are human and will fail from time to time when you share your failures. #mentalhealthsupport Share on XDo you know how valuable you are when you show up and share how Jesus sustains you?
Your presence has a significant impact and reminds us that our faith is enough to get us through anything.
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Mathhew 18:20 NIV)
Do you know how valuable you are when you show up when your life is a mess or your circumstances unbearable?
It gives others a chance to reach out and return what you have given us. Plus, you instill in us the courage to reach out and seek help.
Do you know how valuable you are when you show up and encourage us to keep fighting?
We all want to throw in the towel at some point, and your encouragement will keep us going.
Do you know how valuable you are when you challenge our thinking?
When you introduce a new way of thinking about our situations, encourage patience, or challenge us to try something new, it helps. Sometimes it is as simple as reminding us to take a breath and look at how far we have come.
You are valuable!
Your words are fantastic; however, you don’t need to say a word to have a positive impact; attending a support group with people going through similar circumstances is enough. Don’t let your pain go to waste; you can make a real difference in the lives of others by letting them know they are not alone.
Embracing Faith & Mental Illness Community
Embracing Faith & Mental Illness is a Christ-centered online community for people who care for someone with a mental illness. We have four unique ways for caregivers to participate. You choose what works best for you.
Click here to discover four unique ways for caregivers to participate.
So brave and so open to all you learned – a warrior support group member and model for us all! xoxo
Sue, Thank you! Yes, we all need support from time to time. Blessings, Maree
There is such value in walking a hard path with others who understand and are there themselves. Too often we think we are all alone and no one gets us. That is never true. I am so proud of you for going!
Thank you!