How to Find Divorce Support Groups

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Divorce is a difficult time with lifestyle changes, fear and feelings of loneliness and isolation. Support groups led by an experienced person that understands the process for recovering from divorce is key to rebuilding your life. Support groups also provide an outlet to discuss feelings and provide an opportunity to be surrounded by others experiencing similar changes and difficulties. Here a few tips to help you find a divorce support group.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Ask for a list of suggested resources from the courthouse or from the legal channels you deal with throughout your divorce.
Step 2

Call your place of worship or one of the larger worship places in your area. Often, churches or synagogues will provide divorce care to address the pain and hurt that is associated with the difficult experience of divorce.
Step 3

Consult with a psychologist. The one-on-one time spent with a therapist who is experienced with divorce and family issues can help you work through this rough spot. A psychologist is also a great resource for connecting you to a support group.
Step 4

Research the Internet or local yellow pages for divorce support groups. Check the locations and availability in your area.
Step 5

Check the frequency, times and set-up of a support group and determine the one that best suits your needs. You may want to visit more than one group to pick the best fit.
Step 6

Start a group if one is not available to you. This may seem like a scary thought, but it may help you take control of an unsettling situation and bring help to others just like you.

Tips & Warnings

Get as much information as you can about a support group before you attend. Some groups are for the former wife, some for the former husband and some groups are combined. Some groups have a large attendance and may be intimidating if you are just joining a group.
Try to be on time for the support group meetings so as not to disrupt the flow of the meeting.
Don't be afraid to share your experience. The group is designed to bring you support and healing.
Don't push yourself too quickly, as the recovery process for divorce takes time. Some support groups meet for a specific time period while some are open for an undetermined amount of time.
Respect the privacy of others in your support group by not discussing their situations with someone outside of the group.

Resources

Comments

LegalMinx said

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on 7/18/2008 I also recommend checking MeetUp.com (www.meetup.com) to see if anyone has started such a group in your area. Here in the Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia tri-state area we have several, but even if your area doesn't have one yet, YOU can start it with Meetup.com! For instance, I started one that has over 180 members now, and we will be branching-out to other states soon. So stay tuned!

mpbm said

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on 6/5/2008 DivorceCare, a program based in Florida (I think) has been a live-saver for me. I also made some good friends. I think they have a website; the programs have sprung up in most states. I was reluctant to do this, I didn't want to join any groups or share anything, or hear other peoples' problems; but it's one of the best things I've ever done.