If you’re uncertain as to what to expect in a Support Group that’s a normal feeling. I felt the same way before I attended my first support group. I wished someone gave me a heads-up on the style and requirements for speaking/sharing. Because I did not want to share anything at first. I simply wanted to observe and listen...
What to expect at an MDW Support Group meeting:
Upon arrival, you can select a seat and either get to know the people around you or sit quietly.
Housekeeping: We will start the meeting by reviewing the purpose of the group, introducing the host/moderator, and outlining guidelines for creating a safe space.
Why do we share the Purpose and Guidelines at the beginning of each meeting?
To clear our minds of what’s happened during our individual days and set our hearts to listen, share, and be open-minded for the next hour.
The purpose of this group:
#1 - To be heard.
You are not alone. This group is free from judgment and we ask that you keep an open mind when others share their experience.
#2 - To let it out.
Laughter, tears, joy, frustration, anger, excitement - you can let it out in this support group without the fear of judgment.
#3 - To find community.
Connect with other women who are here for the same reason you are - for support.
Guidelines for creating a safe space:
1. Everything is confidential. What happens in our support group stays in our support group.
2. Similar to addiction recovery meetings, we do not interrupt people when they are speaking to talk over them. No topic is up for debate and we are not here as a community to give advice but focus on ourselves and our own experiences.
3. You have the option to share your experience or opt-out of speaking. If you're not comfortable sharing, simply say, "Pass."
4. Gossip is not allowed and will not be tolerated. Take what you need and leave the rest and accept that what works for someone else might not work for you and vice versa.
5. Sometimes people will stop talking during their time to share. There is no such thing as an awkward silence. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the pause, take time to breathe, and enjoy this safe space.
Introductions:
After Housekeeping, Group Purpose, and Guidelines you will have the opportunity to introduce yourself and/or share your experience. It’s often intimidating to come up with something on the spot, so our format will be:
Share your first name
Who you care for and their ages (for Moms Support Group)
Something you’re working on
A weekly win either in your home, at work, in life, etc.
Anything else you would like to share
Each person will have about 5-10 minutes to share depending on the size of the group. The moderator will keep track of time. You absolutely do not have to talk for the full 5-10 minutes. You can let the moderator know you are finished by saying, “I’m done.”
Again, there is no pressure to share. If you would like to pass and not share, simply say “Pass.”
After Individual Introductions:
If time permits after introductions, group members may ask questions or share additionally.
About Elizabeth Rago, Moms Support Group Host & Moderator:
Elizabeth Rago is a mama of three, wife, writer, and the creator of The Modern Domestic Woman (MDW).
A pursuer of peace, Elizabeth is on a mission to help women from all backgrounds and walks of life to find strength and contentment amid the chaos of life.
If you have additional questions about MDW Support Groups, feel free to reach out to Elizabeth at themoderndomesticwoman@gmail.com or text at 630-946-9102
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