People facing difficult situations often find comfort and strength in spending time with others going through, or who have been through, something similar. Support groups allow people with common concerns and needs to share their experiences, difficulties and feelings.
Support groups may be particularly useful in contexts where people experience rejection, stigma and discrimination arising out of issues such as Ebola, HIV or sexual violence. As a result of stigma, people may experience loneliness and isolation, fear, anxiety and guilt. Being part of a support group may help to reduce these feelings.
