If you are suffering from a phobia, finding reliable support will increase your chances of successfully managing and treating your condition. If you are newly diagnosed, however, you may be unsure what resources are available. Provided here are some suggestions to help you get started.
Support Groups
Support groups are groups of people who share similar disorders. They meet on a regular basis to discuss their concerns, share ideas and coping strategies and socialize with each other.
Some support groups are more formalized, with a moderator who guides each session’s discussions, often around a theme. Others are more relaxed and free-form, allowing the discussions to flow naturally.
Traditional support groups meet in person. As the internet has become a ubiquitous part of people’s lives, many internet-based support groups have sprung up. Some researchers question the therapeutic value of internet groups, where people may or may not be who they say. Others feel that such groups are a wonderful first step for those who suffer severe social phobia or agoraphobia that might prevent their attendance at in-person support group meetings.
You can find both in-person and online support groups through a simple internet search. Most groups list their membership requirements, meeting times and other important information online.
Organizations and Internet Resources
Many organizations exist to provide resources for people who suffer from phobias and other anxiety disorders. Although most organizations are reputable, it is always wise to be cautious. Some excellent organizations include:
National Alliance on Mental
Illness
This national organization is a wonderful place to start. You can
participate in an online community, find local resources and read a
wealth of useful information. Membership requires a small fee, but much
of the information is available to non-members as well.
Mental
Health America
On of the leading nonprofit mental health organizations in the United
States, Mental Health America’s stated goals include improving the
mental health of all people. The organization provides fact sheets and
useful information, as well as a support group locator.
Healthy Minds
The consumer education arm of the American Psychiatric Association,
Healthy Minds is dedicated to providing access to the latest
information and treatment options for people with mental disorders.
Regular and guest columnists keep information fresh, while a series of
fact sheets help to explain a variety of disorders.
Books and Magazines
Phobias are a relatively common disorder, and many sufferers have published books about their experiences. Reading about someone else’s experiences can help to combat the isolation that many people with phobias experience.
Visit your local bookstore or your favorite online bookseller for numerous titles on living with phobias. Just remember that everyone’s experiences are different, and what worked for someone else may or may not work for you.
