Walking into a room full of strangers takes courage, especially when you're not feeling your best. Almost everyone at a support group remembers their own first time, and most groups are used to welcoming new faces. Here's what can help.
Before You Go
Check the day, time and venue first. Groups sometimes move or take a break, especially around bank holidays, so a quick call, message or look at their Facebook page can save a wasted trip. Each guide in this section links to the group's own contact details.
Some groups are happy for you to simply turn up, such as Andy's Man Club, the Night Light Café and the St Barnabas bereavement group. Others ask you to book or get in touch first, such as the Carers First wellbeing group and Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide.
Questions Worth Asking
If you're unsure, it's fine to contact a group before you go. Useful things to ask include:
- Do I need to book, or can I just turn up?
- Is there a cost?
- Can I bring a friend or family member with me the first time?
- What usually happens during a session?
- Will I be expected to talk?
- Is the venue accessible, and is there parking nearby?
- Is there someone I can look out for when I arrive?
On the Day
Try to arrive a few minutes early, and let whoever greets you know it's your first time. At many peer groups, including Andy's Man Club and the St Barnabas bereavement group, you can share as much or as little as you like, and simply listening is fine. Every group is different, though, so if speaking up worries you, ask beforehand.
It's normal to feel nervous, and nobody will expect you to have the right words.
If It Doesn't Feel Right
The first session isn't always the easiest. Many people find a group feels more comfortable after a second or third visit. If it still doesn't suit you, that's fine too: try a different group, or something more activity-based from Friendship and company.
Support groups are not emergency services. If you need help urgently, see Need help now?