SUPPORT GROUP SERVICES
Whether you are dealing with a chronic illness, emotional problem(s), life transition, or want to enhance your health and well-being, Love Vets Ministries, Inc. have support group services - where our veterans and their love one's can come together with other people dealing in the same situation(s).
But maybe you are feeling a little unsure or skeptical about participating in a support group. What can you expect? How can a support group help you?
WHAT IS A SUPPORT GROUP?
A support group is a group of people meeting to share information, experiences, problems and solutions. Support and self-help groups involve regular scheduled meetings to address problems, life transitions, and to offer encouragement and support.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by an illness or condition, talking with people who have been through the same experience can help. Participating in a support or self-help group comprising people in the same situation may help fill the void. Today, we all need nurturing, encouragement, intimacy and consolation, particularly during difficult times.
WHO SHOULD USE SUPPORT GROUPS?
Whether you’re seeking support for caring for a love one (care giving), dealing with a critical medical condition, dealing with isolation & loneliness, divorce, addiction, depression, anxiety, bereavement and grief, or another mental health issue, overcoming your unease and attending a support group can be a valuable step toward healing.
Love Vets Ministries, Inc. support group services are developed to join people together who are dealing with similar difficult circumstances. Our goal is to provide emotional support and camaraderie for military survivors, and their families. Whatever issues you or a loved one are facing....the best medicine can often be the voice of people who have walked in your shoes.
WHAT DO YOU GET FROM A SUPPORT GROUP?
Although support and self-help groups can vary greatly, all groups share one thing in common - these groups are places where people can share personal stories, express emotions, and be heard in an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and encouragement. During the support group meetings, participants share information and resources. While helping others, people in a support group strengthen and empower themselves.
Individuals can come together to share their stories, experiences, and lives in a way that helps reduce isolation and loneliness. Oftentimes, we think we are struggling alone, but support groups help us see that there are others who may dealing with similar situations and who in turn can help us get better.
Support groups are open to anyone, but they are often focused on specific topics (i.e. depression, family, divorce, grief, etc.). Do not be discouraged if the first support group you find doesn't quite feel right. You should feel comfortable in the support group space that you choose, so trying different ones may help you determine the best fit.
When attending support groups; you realize your are not alone, you are able to express your thoughts and feelings, you learn practical tips and resources for dealing with identified concerns, it allows you to improve your social skills, you gain hope that your recovery is attainable; it allows you to reduce levels of distress and discomfort; it provides an increase of self-understanding about yourself; and you benefit from your support group experience which enables you to help other members.
Furthermore, people may greatly benefit from the information sharing that takes place in a support group. They may learn how to manage symptoms, develop better coping skills, and communicate more effectively with their doctors, family, friends and others.
If you need further information concerning Love Vets Ministries, Inc., Support Group Services, please contact our office using the information listed below:
Clarence Douglas, Accredited Claim Service Representative
Love Vets Ministries, Inc.
750 Boling Street, Suite 2
Jackson, MS 39209
Phone: (769) 218-5008
Email: clarencedouglas@lovevetsministries.org
In the event of a mental health emergency, please refer to the resources listed below:
DIAL - 911
National Veterans Crisis Hotline: (800) 273-8255 - PUSH 1
National Women Veterans Hotline: (855) 829-6636
