If you suffer from a mental illness, the road to recovery can be difficult. Luckily, there are a number of support groups out there that are full of people who are facing the same challenges as you. The compassionate staff and volunteers at Mental Health Association of Rochester/Monroe County in New York understand how important it is to have a network of people you can count on during recovery. That’s why they offer peer support groups and programs for a wide variety of mental health conditions. Below, these professionals explain some of the benefits you will enjoy from these services. 

3 Benefits Peer Support Groups Provide

1. Expressing Yourself Without Judgment

Sometimes it can be difficult to talk about the challenges of mental illness with family and friends because of stigma and fear of judgment. In a peer support group though, everyone is going through similar ordeals, so they can relate to your challenges and experiences. This allows you to express yourself in a welcoming, open environment.

2. Increasing Self-Awareness

Listening to another person speak about their own struggles can increase your self-awareness and help you understand the circumstances of your condition better. Peer support groups also allow you to learn other people’s coping skills, which might help you in your own recovery.  

3. Improving Social Skills

Whether you suffer from anxiety or depression, it’s common to break ties with the people you love and retreat inward when you are struggling. But participating in a peer support group will improve your social skills and give you an opportunity to help others.

If you are struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to fight it alone. Call (585) 325-3145 to speak with a caring team member at Mental Health Association of Rochester.  All services are free and don’t require diagnosis or referral. They will help you find the best peer support program to empower you on the road to mental wellness. For more information about their services, visit the Mental Health Association website today.