Going through breakups is the worst! Being alone during these times is really challenging and being around people who understand your pain can be extremely beneficial to your healing process. But what do you do when your friends and family can’t offer you that support. I highly recommend finding a breakup support group.
1. What is a breakup support group?
A group of people who gather in support of one another who have recently broken up or divorced with whom they were in a relationship.
2. How do you start one?
The easiest way is to search online for breakup support groups in your area. Another option is to consider joining an online support group. I recently discovered ShareWell. It’s an online platform providing video support groups, forums, and chat groups. It appears that you can connect with someone 24/7, which can be desirable for those who have trouble sleeping at night.
3. How can women benefit from being a part of one?
It’s always nice to learn that you are not alone. Often times we keep things to ourselves to protect our relationship and as a result, we internalize so many of our feelings. It’s extremely healthy for us to share our feelings with people who we trust have our best interest and you don’t have to fear that that information may get back to anyone you know.
4. How can women find one or start one of their own?
There are many ways to find a support group. It’s best to explore multiple avenues such as doing an online search for any local in-person or virtual groups, checking out different Facebook and/or social media groups, and asking around. If you’d like to start one, I would reach out to a few people who are currently running groups for some words of advice. I’m sure they would be happy to provide you with what they’ve learned to work and how to avoid potential issues. You can also learn how to market the group. Share your group’s information on other mental health groups and share your information with local businesses. Word of mouth is very powerful.
5. What are some things to consider when starting a breakup support group?
Here are several things to consider when starting a breakup support group:
- size of group
- in-person and/or virtual group
- group open to men and/or women
- age group
- location (if not virtual)
- time options
- if virtual, what secure online platform to us
- expenses (with you charge group members)
- frequency of the meetings
6. What should you share/not share?
I would consider not sharing full names and limiting any detailed personal information about their ex-partners, family members, and legal participants. The group should be a safe place to share your feelings, learn to grow a more confident voice, acknowledge the loss you’ve experienced, and grow into a compassionate and supportive person. The life transition after a breakup is challenging and hard- one that no one should have to go through alone. Even if you choose not to participate much in a group, sometimes just listening to others express their thoughts and feelings can be very healing.
7. How can it help?
Joining other social media groups or online groups with similar topics and through word of mouth. You’ll be surprised by the response once you put it out there. There are so many people out there who are afraid to speak up and are just waiting for someone to ask them how they’re doing and if they need support. The power of love and compassion attracts wounded people.
You will probably learn something from attending if you’re an active participant or active listener. It’s an amazing feeling knowing that you are supported by your peers and there is no pressure to talk. These groups offer an environment that feels safe and compassionate. It’s not for everyone but if you are feeling alone, please consider attending one meeting and/or setting up a meeting with a therapist.
