In Praise of Peer Support
Notes from a NAMI Support Group Facilitator
Susan Michelson tells the story of her connection to NAMI in, “Continued Support: My Journey Leading NAMI Family Support Groups.” Her experience with peer support began with attendance at a Family to Family Class which led to volunteer roles within the NAMI community. Susan tells us:
"The benefits of support groups unfolded as I immersed myself in a sea of shared experiences. It wasn’t a case of misery loving company; it was about finding comfort and understanding with those who genuinely grasped the nuances of the mental health journey. For so long, I had sought solace from well intentioned friends who couldn’t truly comprehend the reality of my situation. It was the peer support groups which became a sanctuary for me—an environment where I could find comfort in the notion that I was not alone.
As a peer support leader, I facilitated conversations, abiding by guiding principles: seeing the person first and not the illness, searching for better coping mechanisms, envisioning a future in a more realistic way, and never giving up hope. Each person shared where they were that day, opening avenues for sharing resources and our group wisdom. Addressing crises took precedence, ensuring immediate needs were met. It wasn’t about dictating solutions but offering a platform for folks to share what worked for them.
Support groups became my safe space where shared experiences forged connections. I kept participating because I recognized that although my daughter would always need our help, she has made significant progress living on her own, maintaining employment, and contributing to society. I wanted to be a resource for others who may be experiencing this type of scenario.”
She closes her article with this statement:
“In the end, the story of peer support at NAMI isn’t one of grandeur but of quiet resilience. It is about individuals coming together, understanding that they aren’t alone, and realizing that, collectively, they hold the power to make a difference. My NAMI journey gives me an unwavering belief in the power of peer support and teaches me that real strength lies not in solving every problem but in being there to support and uplift each other through the highs and lows of the mental health journey. I encourage you to learn more about peer support groups in your area.”
Read the full story here: https://voice.nami.org/voice/library/item/nami_voice_spring_2024/4186900/.
NAMI’s Community
While awareness around mental health concerns is growing and stigma is waning a bit in some circles, those living with serious mental health conditions or loving someone who does find a unique, empathetic community in NAMI’s peer based programs. Attend a group, take a class, or become part of the fabric of the community by being trained to teach or facilitate, as Susan did.
