"I come to these groups because there are people here who understand.  Before I came I felt alone; I didn't think anyone else was having the same difficulties I was having."

    -Words from a single mom

"I don't know what to do.  I need help."

    -Words from a grandmother raising her grandchildren alone  

Support groups for families that are dealing with emotional and behavioral issues in their children provide participants the recognition that they are not alone.  They give these families mutual support and a safe place to disclose their struggles.  They also empower caregivers to take personal responsibility and develop new skills.

The Oklahoma Federation of Families is convinced every systems of care site in Oklahoma should have a support group for families in need.  The question, however, is not "Should we have a support group?"  Instead, the question is often, "How do we get a support group started?" or "How do we maintain the support group and keep it healthy?"  These are some of the practical questions this manual answers.      

Table of Contents

• Why Have a Systems of Care Family Support Group
• How to Start a Family Support Group
• The First Meeting
• How to Keep Your Existing Family Support Group Alive and Healthy
• How to Facilitate Your Family Support Group
• What to Talk about at Your Family Support Group Meetings
• How to Evaluate Your Family Support Group

Here's what people are saying about the manual

"Just wanted to let you know I just scanned through the Family Support Group Development Manual.  It is an extremely practical, How-To book.  Very readable, understandable and concrete.  Doesn’t beat around the bush but addresses the difficult issues head-on.  Great job!"

       - Jackie Shipp, Children's Director

         Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Send mail to joey@okfederation.org with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 05/09/07