Support group experience

[Overcoming]

Have you ever taken part in a support group with others who've experienced similar trauma? Was it helpful?

I've been invited to participate in a sexual abuse support group, but am not sure about the idea. 1.) I am recovering from emotional abuse that has stunted my ability to really be in touch with "feelings," thus whenever there are negative feelings, whether with myself or someone else, I'm entirely uncomfortable and anxious. 2.) I'm concerned that it will trigger the mess out of me and I won't be able to cope. 3.) I've never successfully shared my story.

 

[ladee]

Hope you have a Therapist to talk this over with.
There is exposure and then there is just too much at once.
Are you going to be required to tell your story or are you allowed to share if you want to?
Please talk with your T first and I am sure others will share their experiences.

I was only in one group, and don't even remember what it was about. I didn't stay.

Hope you get some shares from others that will help.
Awesome that you reached out....

 

[Joan]

I have had positive and negative experiences. It can be very helpful to know that you are not alone in what you experience and have experienced. Is there a chance to meet with the person leading the group. That was helpful for me in establishing some trust there and learning more what to expect. You should never be "forced" to tell you story...it is yours and your choice when to share or not share or what pieces of it to share. Some questions that are helpful for me to ask before a group is how many people involved, mixed gender or just female, is it a closed group or can people come and go at anytime. For me it is more helpful to have a small group that is set from the beginning and stays the same throughout the process. There also needs to be communication around triggers and a safety net...triggers are to be expected, but there needs to be a plan for grounding and establishing safety. If the goal of the group is support...usually it is not processing trauma and centers more around what is helpful in coping.
I agree with ladee...If you are working with a T now ask if they think this is something helpful. good luck in your decision.

 

[Overcoming]

Thankfully, my T is the one who leads the group, and it's all women. It's a closed group. I haven't learned how to ground myself well, and I'm afraid of feeling trapped in public or a panic attack. I will inquire about the content and expectations, as well as whether or not I am expected to share. Thanks for the feedback!