A support group during and after an uncontested divorce can be an inexpensive way to help you heal from your dissolved marriage. A solid divorce support group can be a place where you can share what you are going through, blow off some steam, learn about practical ways and tips on how to move into your new life, and learn how to possibly help someone else. Choosing the right divorce support group is critical to your participation and development.
If the support group doesn't feel right, then it's time to find a new group. Don't try to force yourself into a support group which you believe isn't a good match for you. Give a support group about a month to see if it's a good fit. Each group will have a unique personality and some address specific issues, for example, a single parent divorce support group.
There are a variety of factors you may want to consider before you officially join a divorce support group. Find out how often the divorce support group meets. Are the meetings held once a week or are there several meetings in a week? If there are several meetings in one week are you expected to attend all of them?
Look around your area and see where divorce support groups meet. Support groups have a variety of different meeting places such as libraries, churches or temples, schools and a member’s home. What type of setting would you be most comfortable in? Moreover, how far is the meeting place from your home or workplace?
Another consideration is the size of the divorce support group. Does the support group have a large membership? Often larger organizations will be involved in multiple activities, such as fundraising and outside education. If you are looking for a safe place to express your emotions you may want to pick a smaller, more intimate group.
Here are some indicators of a well organized support group:
Regular meetings;
A confidential policy. You don't want members referring to you outside the meeting;
Objectivity. The last thing you need is to be judged by a group of strangers;
Accessibility, you don't want to wait three weeks for a response;
Solid leadership; and
Newsletters or bulletins.
Some benefits of a divorce support group include:
Improving your skills to cope;
A reduction in stress;
A sense of belonging and less lonely;
Receiving practical information; and
Having a safe place to honestly express your emotions.
Divorce support groups are also a wonderful place to regain a sense of your self-worth. Don't give up if you don't find the right support group right away. It may take a few tries. You may want to start with either an online search or recommendations from friends.
