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Support Group Guidelines

  • What is said here stays here – this is the essential principle of confidentiality and must be respected by all

  • Differences of opinion are OK – we are all entitled to our own point of view.
  • Use “I” language – share from your personal experience, say “this is what helped me” or “when I was faced with that problem, I...” – don’t give advice unless asked for.
  • It’s OK not to share – people don’t need to actively participate; much can be gained by just listening.
  • We are all equal – we accept cultural, linguistic, sexual orientation, gender nonconformity, social, religious, and racial differences and promote their acceptance.
  • It’s everyone’s responsibility to make the group a safe place to share – respect confidentiality, treat each other with respect and kindness, and show compassion.
  • Keep the environment emotionally safe – it is everyone’s responsibility to respect boundaries and create a safe and supportive environment that allows everyone the opportunity to participate. Use minimal triggering language.
  • Please do not use specific names of medications – you may use the classification of medications in place of the name.
  • One person speaks at a time – each person should be allowed to speak free from interruptions and side conversations.
  • Share the airtime – everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one person should monopolize the group time.
  • “Headline” your comments – say the most important part of your comment first, try to keep your contribution brief and to the point.
  • The facilitator may interrupt you – to keep the meeting on track.