Get Into the Group That’s Right for You

The way fibromyalgia impacts each person’s life is unique—so it stands to reason that one single type of support group is not going to be the right fit for everyone in the FM community.

There are, however, some important characteristics that an effective support group must have to be successful and to meet the needs of its members. Effective groups have the following things in common:

  The group is defined by
* A written description of the type of group it is:
-  Led by a professional facilitator or a volunteer support group leader
- Sharing and caring group (everyone is encouraged to share their feelings and the group does its best to support each member), or
- Information sharing (the group hears from an expert speaker on various  FM-related issues), or
- Both information and personal sharing, or
- Activity-based (the group meets to participate in scheduled activities), or
- An online group, or
- An FM and chronic fatigue syndrome combination group

* Consistent meeting time, place, and length

* Identified leadership (usually a leader or professional facilitator and a core group of volunteers that assist)

* A membership code of conduct

The leader/ facilitator provides a safe environment to ensure
* Members feel comfortable sharing
* All members have an opportunity to be heard
* Each member is treated with respect
* No single member is allowed to monopolize the discussion
* Communication is two-way
* All members are kept up-to-date on changes, special events, and appropriate events in members’ lives (with permission) through email, mail, or phone chains

These are some important characteristics effective groups should have, which can offer a sort of checklist to evaluate a group you are considering joining. It is most important, however, to decide what you need to get out of group participation. Making a list of your needs and expectations will assist you in deciding which questions you should ask to determine whether or not you want to attend the meetings of a particular group.

After you’ve made your list and feel confident about what you are looking for, it is important to start the interview process. The National Fibromyalgia Association has listings for support groups in most states, which can be found on our website (click on Community, then Support Groups). Each listing provides a contact name and number and basic information, including a brief description of the group. However, it is very important to call the group leader first to learn more about the group’s overall philosophy and approach. 

Unfortunately, we do not have a listing for every state, county, city, and town in America, so you might have to expand your search to include calling hospitals, chiropractors, physical therapists, rheumatologists, or other offices where FM patients seek care, to see if staff know of any FM support groups in the area. If you are unable to find a group in your area, you might consider starting your own group—and the NFA can assist you in this endeavor.

One thing is for certain: being part of a support group—as a member or a leader—will change your life and the way you feel about having fibromyalgia forever. 

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View other articles in vol. 9, no. 11 of FMOnline:
 
In the Spotlight
Get Into the Group That’s Right for You
Support Yourself
Finding Resources in Your Community
 
In the News
Snooze News
Survey Investigates Challenges to Disability Applicants