I have been facilitating a caregiver support group for over 20 years. It is one of the highlights of my work, being there in the moment, helping caregivers find some relief from the stress they feel in their journeys.
Support groups have been part of the services that JFCS offers for longer than I’ve been here, and for good reason. Our support groups include grief support groups, caregiver support groups, and various mental health support groups and events.
Support groups bring different people together who are experiencing the same issue or stressor. It may be grief, a chronic or acute illness, a family member who is sick, or parents with child related issues. These disconnected people who may never have met otherwise become strongly connected to one another in their difficult moments.
There are countless groups throughout the country and Pittsburgh region, some in person, some online, and some hybrid. They exist because they offer something the participants need.
Participants may need information. Experiences are passed from one stage of an issue back to another. One member saying to another “I know where to get that need met – let me help you” brings relief to the new member and contentment to the old one. Their knowledge is treasured by others and that is very validating.
Participants may need understanding. No one “gets” you more than someone who has been there before or is experiencing the same thing as you, now. “My friends don’t want to hear this from me anymore” is a common refrain, often responded to with “we understand and we DO want to hear from you.”
Participants often need camaraderie. A support group member feels less alone, more seen, and more recognized and appreciated. The power of being in a group with like-minded, like-experienced people is strong.
People will often tell me “I’m not a group person” when I suggest attending a support group for the issue that is affecting them. I usually respond that unless they are a hermit in a cave somewhere, they are more of a group person than they think! But I understand where they are coming from. While we are socialized to share fun information or pleasant items in a friend group, we are also socialized to hide parts of ourselves that may be vulnerable or painful. Support groups are among the safest places to be vulnerable and share that pain, because the other attendees are in your same boat. I recommend that people check out a support group for their need. Once is usually enough for attendees to realize that the group is not a scary place at all. Rather, it is a welcoming treasure trove of new companions.
Written By: Stefanie Small, LCSW, Director of Clinical Services
We’re proud to share that JFCS has been honored with the Best of the Burgh: Best Counseling Center 2025. This recognition highlights the impact the counseling team has had on the emotional well-being of individuals, families and our community.