How Group Therapy Can Help Your Mental Health

Group therapy can seem like a daunting concept. When you barely feel comfortable being vulnerable alone, how do you open up about your concerns in front of strangers?

Most people find group therapy extremely beneficial. Some people report feeling secure sharing their concerns in a group where people understand and share similar concerns. For instance, researchers have found that people that undergo group therapy for conditions like eating disorders and anxiety disorders have experienced significant improvement in their symptoms. 

In this article, we explore the benefits of group therapy for your psychological healing, so you can figure out if it is the right choice for you.

Also read: The Benefits of Building Relationships and Strong Social Connections

What is group therapy?

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where psychologists work with multiple people at once. It involves one or more psychologists who lead a group of up to 15 people in a session.

Typically, group members meet once or twice a week to discuss their concerns, experiences, and progress. Group meetings last for about an hour or two, and can be open, where new members can join at any point, or closed, where only a core group of participants attends sessions.

During group meetings, individuals may start by introducing themselves and sharing their reason for being a part of the group. As sessions progress, they may start sharing more about their experience and progress. 

Depending on the therapist and the overall goals of the group, each group functions differently. In some cases, free-flowing dialogue is encouraged, where participants are free to add to the discussion as they see fit. While in other cases, therapists may opt for a more structured discussion during each session, where participants learn and practise new skills with other members.

Group therapy can be used alone, but it is often used as a supplementary technique along with individual therapy. While group therapy can give you fresh insights and perspectives into your situation, individual therapy can be customised to your specific needs.

Also read: The Impact of Therapy and Medication on Mental Health Recovery

Benefits of group therapy

Group therapy can not only be an effective approach to dealing with certain mental health conditions, but rewarding, too. As a mental health treatment, group therapy offers several advantages, and can help you get the support you need to deal with your concerns.

Realise that you're not alone

Mental health conditions can be isolating, where you feel that there is no one else who can understand what you're going through. And while your situation can be unique, group therapy helps you realise that others, too, are dealing with similar emotions and circumstances. 

Others may not be dealing with the same concerns, but knowing that others have faced similar challenges can bring you a sense of comfort and empowerment when you share your experience during meetings.

Get an opportunity to learn from others

When dealing with difficult circumstances, it can be hard to see the situation from a new perspective. But, participating in group therapy can provide the insight you need.

You can not only learn from others' experiences but also be able to see how they cope with similar situations. Getting a fresh perspective can help you incorporate new skills and strategies to deal better with your concerns. As each member may be at a different stage in their treatment, they can also offer their thoughts on what worked for them, how they manage their symptoms, and more.

Also read: Overcoming Negative Thinking Patterns and Embracing Positivity

Learn new communication skills and express yourself

Often, confiding in strangers can be easier than talking to the people in your personal life. Group therapy provides you with a safe space to express yourself and gives you a voice.

During meetings, you can think and speak your mind freely, especially as you feel a sense of camaraderie with others. It is a space where you can test out and discover new communication skills, and see how you feel about them.

As sessions progress, group therapy helps you build the confidence to express yourself outside of meetings as well. 

Understand how healthy interactions work

When dealing with mental health challenges, people may often isolate themselves from others, affecting their relationships. As interactions dwindle, it becomes harder for you to know how to reach out to others.

Group therapy can be an excellent opportunity for you to learn how to interact effectively with others. You can not only learn and enhance your social skills, but also understand how communication affects relationships.

At first, group therapy can seem intimidating. While there may be some initial awkwardness, it is possible to work through them and learn new skills while you're at it. Group therapy can be a valuable part of your mental health journey, and it may be worthwhile to explore this option.

Sources:

Kerslake, R. (2021, June 25). 5 Benefits of Group Therapy. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/lib/benefits-of-group-therapy

Lcsw-S, C. V. C. (2021). 8 Rewarding Benefits of Group Therapy. Talkspace. https://www.talkspace.com/blog/benefits-of-group-therapy/

Orenstein, B. W. (2014, November 25). 6 Benefits of Group Therapy for Mental Health Treatment. EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/benefits-group-therapy-mental-health-treatment/