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Family Support Group offers safe space for loved ones to learn tools to assist in recovery
A mental illness diagnosis can be a traumatic experience for not only the person receiving the diagnosis, but their families as well. Often times, family members don’t know who to turn to or how to cope with another person’s health challenges. For those supporting someone living with a mental illness, the Laing House Family Support Group is a safe space for people to learn the tools they need to assist in their loved one’s recovery.
Laing House is a peer support organization for young people who have been diagnosed with a mood disorder, psychosis, and/or anxiety disorder. We offer an environment that fosters relationships with other youth living with mental illness, along with resources and programs to empower them to reach their full potential. The Laing House Family Support Group provides a similar experience for friends or family members of those living with mental illness and is open to everyone, not just those associated with Laing House members. Through this group, people have the opportunity to share experiences and to provide hope for each other through rough times. Guest speakers are invited to cover a range of topics, from physicians and pharmacists to mental health advocates that present valuable information and resources to assist in navigating the system. Family Support Group facilitates building a network of people and resources to better equip each other for coping with the struggles associated with living with mental illness.
“Participants comment on how helpful it is to speak to others who have gone through significant mental health challenges with family members as they know they are not alone.” Says Barb King, Laing House Family Support Group coordinator. “Many continue to participate in meetings even after the family member is doing well and so they are able to give those in crisis hope that better days are coming. Our guest speakers often provide valuable information on important and relevant topics such as medications, resources, communication skills and recovery.”
The Laing House Family Support Group meets on the first Monday of every month from 7-9pm at 1225 Barrington Street. Anyone (friend, family or supporter) is welcome to join in this non-judgmental, empathic, safe space for people to share their honest experiences. Personal information is held in strict confidence and all Family Support Group members are there to respect your personal struggle. If you or someone you love is in need of hope, please attend the next meeting or call 902-425-9018 for more information.