I've read a few posts on DF that mentioned depression support groups. I looked around my area and there's one in a nearby town. I'm considering checking it out, but I'd like to have an idea what they're about. What do they talk about? Is there a leader that leads the discussion? Would I do the whole "Hello my name is Allison and I have depression and social anxiety disorder..." introduction thing? Have you noticed what age bracket tends to be in these groups?

I just really don't have any idea and would appreciate your experiences or thoughts on such groups. Thanks!

Hi Alli77, Different groups probably operate in somewhat different ways. I belong to a NAMI group in Iowa. We first go over the goals or beliefs of the group and guidelines for interactions then we go around the group and say our names and diagnosis (if we feel comfortable doing so). There is a facilitator (peer who has had training) and co-facilitator. They identify a couple of issues that have come up during sharing that seem pressing, are shared by more than one member or a common problem for discussion. The meeting lasts 1 1/2 hours with a 10-15 minute break time. My understanding is that EA (Emotions Anonymous) operates similar to AA. They also have things they read at the beginning then may ask if anyone wants to share something. I think there is usually a disinated topic for discussion. I have no knowledge what happens in other groups. You can certainly call the contact person and ask specifically what happens. When I was visiting Texas, I found that the group I contacted was mainly speaker oriented.
I have found the group to be of tremendous support and a great place to just be yourself and among others who understand you.
Iowa

hey ther alli, support groups are just that, mostly where i live and have attended is just like iowa has explained. as adults who have different types of depression can be within the same support groups where this can inlighten others of different types of illness that they suffer from. some may be depression with some physical illness that effects their depression. everybody introduces their self and stated from what they suffer from. then they go around the table and ask each person if they would like to share something that they need help and support with. you don't have to state anything if you wish not to, but after getting to know others and see what they go through then it is easier at least for me it was, you can share as much or as little of what you feel you can handle. as to adult groups it is easier to relate to. as teens or young children they try to put them in groups close to their own ages because sometimes if they are put into adult groups it can be overwhelming to the younger one. i use to go to a support group for survivors of sexual abuse and had gotten to the point that they felt i was asked if i wanted to be one of the moderators for the group. i was worried at the beginning if i was ready for it but i did agree and things went very well. that has been many years ago so i am a bit rusty at it right now. i still have my papers and books on this support group but have not looked at them in years. anyway i hope this may have been of some help. the best thing is to call and ask about the support group because there are different ways in handling things different. depending on where you live or the clinics you go to.