What We Do | Self-Help Groups

SELF-HELP GROUP SERVICES
Phone Referral Service
Call 1.800.445.0116 (toll free in KS) or 316.978.3843 (local/outside of KS) from 8:00 to 5:00 p.m. (CST), Monday through Friday, to receive personal, one-on-one assistance in finding a self-help group.  

ONLINE HELPBASE
Click here to link to search the online database for self-groups.  Searches are easy, free, and accessible 24 hours a day.

Self-help groups listed in the directory and on the online database are characterized as “mutual support” groups, are either ongoing or repeated (vs. time limited), and offered either free or at a minimal cost.  Self-help groups focus on a common concern or situation and generally help promote the development, facilitation, and continuation of self-help groups. 

Note:  The listing of an organization or group by CCSR does not imply endorsement of purpose or quality; groups not listed do not signify disapproval.  

Self Help Groups, sometimes called support groups, include people who share the same issue or life situation. Members meet on a regular basis in hospitals, churches, and community centers. Self-help groups are member-run and are typically open to anyone who shares the concern of the group as well as their family members and friends.  Some well known self-help groups include Alcohol Anonymous (AA), National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI), Good Grief Bereavement, and there are literally thousands of others.

Besides providing emotional support, group members share pragmatic, valuable insights gained through life experiences with similar situations.  Groups provide members detailed and accurate health information and an understanding of the local health and service system. Many self-help groups advocate policy changes for the benefit of all who share the group’s concern. National self-help organizations offer support through newsletters, hotlines, and assistance in starting groups.

Numerous scientific studies have concluded that self-help groups are effective. Persons in self-help groups are better at following medically prescribed courses of treatment, show improved lifestyle changes suggested by their physician to prevent relapse, and are less anxious and depressed regarding their illness or situation. Some studies indicate self-help groups can reduce mortality rates.

WANT TO START A SELF-HELP GROUP? 
CCSR can help!  CCSR staff can provide assistance to individuals or organizations who want to start a group or enhance an existing group.  Get guidance on topics such as maintaining and increasing your membership base, take a look at model processes and groups, gain an understanding about the benefits of mutual help and more.  Call 1.800.445.0116 (toll free in KS) or 316.978.3843 for assistance today.