Peer support groups are predominantly groups of individuals that have a similar lived experience or issue and are set up to provide support. These groups can be very helpful to reduce isolation, create a sense of community, help to share the burden of disease as well as to provide useful information. These groups may be face to face or online.
Peer support groups might be beneficial for you in many ways. Sometimes it’s hard for family and friends to understand and to even empathise with a condition that has no end date. Having people that are facing the same issues can be a relief. Often just sharing your story to people that understand can be cathartic and it can feel empowering knowing you have people in your corner.
There are many groups in Canberra, and here are some that you can contact to join a peer support group.