Feb. 26--When you have a problem, there is nothing like talking with a friend who understands. And in today's global community, that friend could easily be someone on the other side of the world.
Online support groups, with topics ranging from pregnancy to alcoholism, are a growing presence. Organizations like the American Cancer Society are even getting into the act, starting a support group called The Cancer Survivors Network. For more about the risks and benefits to online self-help groups, Tamra Paolillo, counselor with Heartland Counseling, answers a few of our questions.
Why do you think there is a growing interest in online support groups?
A. There is a difference between online self-help support groups and support groups. Support groups are organized and facilitated by trained mental health professionals. Interest in self-help groups continues to grow because of the convenience and ease of accessibility. Many people today find it difficult to attend face-to-face appointments and appreciate the ease of accessing information quickly. Some also appreciate the anonymity of being able to gain information without direct contact.
What are some examples of self-help groups?
A. Self-help groups cover a broad range of topics. People who are experiencing a traumatic event such as grief or health concern find these groups helpful, as they sometimes feel desperate for immediate assistance. Other topics are parenting, ADHD, chemical dependency, divorce, weight loss and home schooling -- to name a few.
What are some of the advantages of online self-help groups?
A. Advantages of such groups include the fact that they are powerful banks of information, they offer experiential knowledge and some patients prefer the peer support, convenience and accessibility. Typing out feelings in itself is therapeutic. Self-help groups can empower, inform, offer expressive outlets and offer a forum of hope and encouragement. Despite some disadvantages, most I think would agree that the advantages outweigh the risks -- particularly in situations where information is not readily available.
What are some of the disadvantages?
A. Disadvantages may be the spread of possibly erroneous or misleading information. However, as groups become established, a sort of "intelligent mass" forms and misinformation is generally corrected. Privacy is at greater risk. There is also a lack of physical touch. Expense may be a factor if they have to purchase a computer and pay for Internet access.
In what ways would you caution a client about online self-help groups?
A. Cautions regarding security would be to use first names only and to use a protected e-mail address in the event that they would want to discontinue contact with either the group or an individual in the group. This would be certainly a discussion for someone savvy in computer technology.
Is there anything else people should know about online self-help groups?
A. Facilitated online group therapy is rare, and frankly, I'm not familiar with any to speak intelligently about them. I have been reading in some journals that there is some discussion and interest. There is also interest in providing therapy and some therapists currently provide online therapy to their clients. Group members would have to be closely screened by the therapist. I would think the therapist would want to have the name of the individual's physician and their contact information. I think the liability issues would discourage most professionals from offering such services but again, I do think there are a few very select groups out there.
Lifestyles reporter Betsy Lee can be reached at betsylee@npgco.com.
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