The benefits of joining support groups and where to find them
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Learn why support groups matter, how they can help, and where you can find them.
Support groups are more than just a space to talk. They can offer comfort during life’s tougher moments and a strong sense of connection when things are going well. This guide explains what support groups are, how they can support your mental and emotional health, and how to find one that’s right for you.
What are support groups?
Support groups bring people together who are experiencing similar challenges. These common challenges could include:
Grief
A specific health condition
A life transition like retirement
Whatever the situation, the goal of support groups is the same. That is: to offer emotional, social, or practical support in a safe and understanding space.
Support groups aren’t only for those going through emotional difficulty. They can be a proactive way to protect your mental health, build connection, and find purpose – especially during times of change. You might join a group to share, listen, or simply feel less alone.
Watch Barrie’s story
In this short interview, Barrie shares his experience of grief following the loss of his wife. He speaks about the importance of staying socially active.
Keeping busy, working and things like that, trying to be involved in lots of things – that’s what’s keeping me going.
Barrie’s resilience doesn't just come from within himself. It also comes from the people he chooses to connect with.
Barry joined a walking group organised by his wife’s palliative care service. He found that talking with others who were also navigating loss made a difference.
Being able to relate to people on the same page as me – that’s been good.
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Mental and emotional benefits of support groups
Support groups can help you:
Reduce feelings of isolation
Find comfort in shared experiences
Learn practical coping strategies
Feel a greater sense of community, belonging, and purpose
Community and social connections are important to both your mental and physical health. In fact, social networks are as important to your health over your lifespan as diet and exercise are. The connection and sense of community support groups offer are very valuable. These benefits can be especially helpful after major life events such as:
Loss
Diagnosis
Moving house
Retiring
A 2024 study showed that older adults who joined support groups had a significant reduction in ‘retirement syndrome’. This refers to a cluster of negative feelings that can arise after leaving work. Participants reported improvement in all aspects of this experience after joining a group.
By supporting your social and mental health, support groups can improve your overall quality of life.
Types of support groups
Support groups are available for a wide range of experiences, including:
Some groups are informal and friendly, while others are more structured. You might prefer one that’s peer-led, or one run by a professional. Many are now available online as well as in person, so you can choose the setting that suits you best.
Tip: If you're feeling unsure, contact the organiser first to learn more before attending.
How to find a support group for you
You can find support groups in lots of different ways:
Try the LiveUp quiz to see what supports might suit you
Search the LiveUp activities database for support groups near you
References
Yang, Y. C., Boen, C., Gerken, K., Li, T., Schorpp, K., & Harris, K. M. (2016). Social relationships and physiological determinants of longevity across the human life span. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), 113(3), 578–583. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1511085112
Qorbani, S., Majdabadi, Z. A., Nikpeyma, N., Haghani, S., Shahrestanaki, S. K., & Poortaghi, S. (2024). Qorbani, S., Majdabadi, Z. A., Nikpeyma, N., Haghani, S., Shahrestanaki, S. K., & Poortaghi, S. (2024). The effect of support group participation on retirement syndrome in retired older adults: A randomized controlled trial. BMC Geriatrics, 24(1), 155. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-04923-4
How to use this information
LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.
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