One of the strongest links to addictive behavior has been learned loneliness. One of the top reasons for relapse is a lack of the type of supportive behavior that you can get from others who understand the struggle of addiction, versus well-meaning loved ones who are repeating platitudes. Peer support is key to the success of programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. As with addiction, finding kinship among others struggling with other issues such as depression, mental disorders, or unpleasant circumstances becomes vital. The benefits of group therapy can help individuals support each other in navigating through otherwise low periods of their lives.
Learn more about addiction therapy programs to prevent relapse.
What Are the Benefits of Group Therapy?
Group therapy is typically a small group, capped at 10 participants. A trained facilitator leads sessions of individuals sharing experiences that they are dealing with in life. It is held once or twice weekly, with everyone engaging in a psychosocial counseling setting. With a common bond, everyone is free to express themselves without judgment or condescension. There are multiple proven benefits to group therapy that have been noted over the years.
Social Skills
Many people dealing with issues that are related to living an isolated or solitary life struggle with social interactions. One of the benefits of group therapy is being able to speak in a safe space. For those struggling with social anxiety, exposure to speaking in front of a comfortable crowd can be a solid first step in gaining the confidence to be more assertive when need be. Group therapy is a supportive place to practice the social skills learned during dual diagnosis treatment.
Building relationships
Not only are social skills enhanced, but it is common for friendships to form that continue outside of therapy. By getting to interact with people who have shared experiences, it is possible to build bonds with people who you would not have otherwise met. Most individuals in group therapy are used to listening, are familiar with keeping confidences, and are comfortable with pointing out when you are acting in a self-destructive manner.
Support System and Unity
As people share things that they are struggling with, they tend to relate better to one another and form an encouraging relationship of each individual helping each of the others in their goals. Those who have been through similar experiences can eliminate feelings of solitude as it’s learned that nobody is alone in the problems they experience.
Sounding Board
More benefits of group therapy include, not only, the asset of knowing others who have relevant experience to a situation you may be experiencing, but having access to multiple perspectives of that situation, as well. Being able to discuss your situation with people who have been there and have learned things the hard way can help you avoid some of the traps that catch so many others.
More About Group Therapy
Group therapy isn’t limited to sitting in a room and discussing what you are feeling. Other types of group therapy can be helpful as well. Options include skill-building workshops, group outings, and expressive or creative therapy (such as painting, writing, etc.).
Group therapy is particularly effective with teenagers as they are more likely to take information more seriously from a peer versus an authority figure. If your teen refuses to listen to you, consider a peer support group.
Another great thing about group therapy is that there are no risks involved with it. Unlike medications that may have terrible side effects and still not work, group therapy doesn’t force participation. Therefore, therapy has a lower chance of making a situation worse.
Where to Find Group Therapy
If you are curious about whether or not the benefits of group therapy apply to you, look no further than Tampa Recovery Centers. Our specialists will fit you into the right type of group therapy for your situation. Group therapy can be used in the following programs:
To speak with someone who is trained to assist in such a matter, please contact us by calling 866.327.0883.
