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Reaching Out
Support Groups In the U.S.
and Around the World
 Support
groups provide a non-threatening place for people with a common interest
to come together to share experiences, gather information, learn from
experts and each other, and more. A support group is what the people
involved make of it.
A support group is not necessarily
appropriate for everyone, and some people may find that a support
group actually adds to their stress rather than relieving it. Most
support groups are free, collect voluntary donations, or charge modest
membership dues to cover basic expenses, such as refreshments at meetings
or photocopying costs.
A useful support group should include:
- Both newcomers and people who have suffered with apnea for longer
periods of time to provide a balance of perspectives for the group.
- People with whom the apneic feels comfortable.
- Leaders who empathize, gently draw out shy members, and keep others
from dominating, and who distill discussion into useful information.
- A history indicating the group is stable and meeting the needs
of its members.
Some
support groups may put their own interests before those of the individual
patient. Groups that engage in any of the following activities should
be avoided:
- Promise sure cures and quick solutions.
- Conduct meetings that are mainly “gripe” sessions.
- Urge patients to stop prescribed treatment and recommend a single
solution to their problem.
- Insist that patients reveal private or sensitive information.
- Demand allegiance to a cult-like, charismatic leader.
- Charge high fees.
- Require patients to purchase products.
Listed
below are the names of various support groups, along with any information
provided about their meetings, including dates, times, and contact
information. To have your group included, please email the information
to Awake In Philly using the button below.
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