African Institute for Ending Violence, Bullying & Suicide
SUPPORT GROUP BASICS
The support groups that AFRIBS implements and trains are called Self-help peer support group meetings that focus on mutual aid and strategies for living the fullest life possible. Group members regularly seek to provide hope, reassurance, and encouragement to one another. By sharing experiences, insights, and ideas, people get peer-to-peer support from others who have been equally affected by the same triggers. AFRIBS groups meet regularly and are free of charge. Group members make the group a safe place by encouraging a supportive, trustworthy, respectful, non-judgmental atmosphere. All those attending have an opportunity to share strategies, tips, and experiences that can help others live successfully with depression, stress or anxiety caused by various environmental and genetic reasons. Confidentiality in AFRIBS support group stays within the group. No one may reveal information about the people attending the group or what is said during the meeting. Exceptions to this policy are made only when safety is a concern (for example if an individual is suicidal).
FACILITATORS TRAINING
FACILITATORS FUNCTION AND ROLE
1. Enhances the facilitator role by understanding and has compassion for group members.
2. Provides supportive listening and provides empathy for other’s experiences.
3. Accepts participants for who they are regardless of religion, tribe, and background.
4. Only shares what they feel comfortable sharing and are mindful of what details may or may not be helpful.
5. Shares “what worked for them” rather than give advice or tells others what to do.
6. Asks permission to give advice and make sure the receiver knows they can take what resonates with them and leave the rest.
FACILITATORS FUNCTION AND ROLE
7. Creates an environment of comfort and ease to talk and share experiences.
8. Uses a comfort agreement, recovery values and strengths-based approach.
9. Uses boundaries and self-care. Is self-aware and self-reflective.
10. Knows their strengths and is open and honest with the group.
11. Leads by example (not as the “boss”). Facilitators model healthy and respectful behaviours.
12. Observes the group atmosphere helps to move things along, clarifies ideas, and ensures everyone feels included.
FACILITATORS FUNCTION AND ROLE
13. Makes sure group members know it is okay to pass.
14. Finds out what the group wants and helps gain access to information, ideas, resources, support, etc.
15. Supports participants in reaching the goals of the group.
16. Reinforces that the group ‘belongs’ to the members.
17. Goes to the group for answers and input. Facilitators are not expected to have all the answers.
