Support Groups: A Bridge to Healing and Empowerment
By Lana Carter
Support is a crucial factor in our lives. I’ve always heard that it takes a village to raise a child, but in truth, this concept extends much farther into healing, thriving, and succeeding. Unfortunately, we don’t always have immediate access to the village, and this is especially true in our most vulnerable times. For many women, support groups can serve as the glue that holds everything else together and a bridge to healing. Support groups offer survivors a space to gather, share stories, and connect with others who have experienced similar trauma.
In this blog post, I’ll talk about why support groups are helpful and how to find empowering support groups for women near you.
How do &Rise support groups help women trauma survivors?
&Rise offers both in-person and virtual support groups designed to help women feel seen, heard, and understood while receiving the support they need.
These groups provide an opportunity to:
Overcome social and emotional isolation often experienced after trauma and abuse.
Access free support, removing financial barriers to healing.
Learn how trauma and abuse have affected your life.
Gain a foundation to begin overcoming your past and embracing your future.
If you're starting your healing journey, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin or how to find the right resources. Maybe you're already isolated from healthy relationships and longing for a supportive community of women who understand what you've been through. If this resonates with you, a support group could be the first step toward healing and regaining your life.
How to Find a Safe, Empowering Support Group near you
Taking the time to find the right support group can significantly enhance your emotional well-being and personal growth.
If you're outside the Chicago area and looking for in-person support, be encouraged that there are many resources available to help you find a group that fits. Websites like findhelp.org allow you to enter your zip code to locate relevant support groups and other community assistance, such as housing support.
Here's how to find groups that are safe, inclusive, and provide helpful, reliable information:
Research and Referrals: Start by researching local or online groups focused on your specific needs. findhelp.org is a great resource, but many hospitals, nonprofits, and community centers also offer support groups. Asking trusted friends, family, or professionals for recommendations can guide your search.
Assess the Group's Focus: At &Rise, our goal is to empower women and girls to be the ultimate versions of themselves despite their adversities. We do this by creating a sense of safety and community among women trauma survivors. A strong support group should have a clear mission that is reflected in everything they do. Whether the group addresses a specific issue like grief or promotes general personal growth, ensure the group's mission aligns with your goals for healing and empowerment.
Safety and Comfort: A safe support group is built on trust and respect. Look for groups that create a nonjudgmental space, where confidentiality is respected and inclusivity is fostered. Honest conversations should be encouraged, as a supportive environment is essential for sharing and receiving help.
Qualified Facilitators and Evidence-Based Information: Groups led by peer leaders, such as those at &Rise, provide a unique and powerful combination of lived experience and professional training. Peer leaders are individuals who have gone through similar trauma themselves and have undergone training to guide others through their healing process. This dual perspective enhances the group dynamic, creating a space where you can feel truly understood while receiving helpful, evidence-based support. Be cautious of groups that rely solely on unverified methods or offer quick fixes. Reputable groups will encourage professional treatment when needed and provide information rooted in research and best practices.
Feelings of Belonging: Finally, trust your instincts. After attending a few sessions, ask yourself: “Do I feel uplifted by these meetings?” If you leave feeling more isolated or discouraged, it may be time to seek another group that aligns more closely with your needs.
Check Out &Rise Support Groups in Chicago and Online
No matter where you are on your healing journey, support groups offer a vital space to grow, connect, and transform. If you're feeling isolated or unsure of where to start, consider joining a group that resonates with your experiences. Reach out today—your healing is just a group away.
Check out our support groups page for more information on how to connect with a support group, or use findhelp.org to explore other resources in your area. You don’t have to walk this path alone.
