How to Join a Down Syndrome Support Group

By eHow Health Editor

Rate: (0 Ratings)

If you feel overwhelmed when it comes to dealing with the challenges of raising a Down syndrome child, finding a support group can help you feel less alone. A support group is also a great resource to discuss ideas with and to understand what other parents in your situation are doing. By interacting with members of a support group on a regular basis, you and your child can benefit from their experiences. Read on to learn how to join a Down syndrome support group.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Ask your doctor. If you have a primary care physician for your child, talk to him first. Many doctors are actively involved in community outreach programs and can probably refer you to groups they know directly. Or they can refer you to a psychologist or therapist who can recommend a group.

Step2

Talk to your local school. If your child is attending school, the board should be able to point you in the direction of an appropriate support group. If your child is too young to be in school, the local school board should still be able to provide some general information you can use.

Step3

Talk to your church. If you are a member of any congregation, your religious leader should be able to help you find a local group for support and encouragement. Small congregations may not have special Down syndrome support groups, but you can still benefit from parent support groups or groups for people with disabled family members.

Step4

Visit your local hospital. Most hospitals and clinics keep a reference list of support groups for their patients. Children's hospitals are best, but any hospital should be able to provide you with a list or refer you to somebody who can.

Step5

Search the National Down Syndrome Society's website to find a local group or to get ideas about whom to talk to for support. See the Resources section below for a link. The organization can also direct you to special groups for parents, family members or even parents with more than one child.

Tips & Warnings

Don't feel obligated to stay with the first support group you join. Not all groups are the same and not all of them are appropriate for everybody. Be respectful and say your goodbyes, but move on if you don't feel comfortable.