What is a key characteristic of a support group?

A key characteristic of a support group is that it often serves as a self-help resource for individuals who share a specific symptom, situation, or experience. Support groups provide a safe and welcoming environment where participants can connect and share their feelings, challenges, and coping strategies related to their common experiences. This shared understanding fosters empathy and allows individuals to offer and receive support from peers who are facing similar issues.

Support groups typically emphasize mutual aid and the power of collective experience, rather than being led by a trained therapist or adhering to a strict structure with defined lessons. While personal growth and change can occur, the primary focus remains on the shared experience and the support provided among members. This collaborative and informal approach distinguishes support groups from therapy or more structured interventions.