I’ve mentioned how much I enjoy being with other birthmothers and how to find a live support group locally, but what do you do when there is not a support group in your area?

You can consider starting one! The task may seem daunting, but I’ve broken it up into some simple steps listed below.

These tips would work for creating a support group for any member group of the triad, but I’ve used birthmothers in my examples.

1. Find a location for your support group meetings. Many libraries have free meeting rooms that are available for use by members of the community. If you go to church, your church is also an option. Hospital conference rooms may possibly be another resource as well. Find out the availability of the location.
2. Choose a day for your support group meetings based on when your chosen location is available. Some groups meet on the same night once a week while other groups may meet the same night once a month. For example, the second Thursday of each month.
3. Decide what type of triad members are going to be allowed at group meetings? Do you wish for your meetings to be for all members or birthmothers only?
4. Decide who is going to lead your support group meetings. Some groups are led by a birthmother known as peer support groups and others are led by a professional such as a counselor, therapist, or a social worker. Even if your support group is not led by a counselor, therapist, or social worker, you may wish to ask one to attend in case any issues arise amongst the attendees that you are not equipped to handle.
5. Decide on the itinerary for meetings. Will it just be a support group meeting where attendees come and talk about their thoughts and feelings regarding adoption or being a birthmother or will you have a special guest speaker, readings, etc each meeting then discussions?
6. Now that you have your location, the day for meetings, and someone to provide support, you must begin inviting your chosen target audience. Call local adoption agencies, health departments, social workers, etc. and invite any birthmothers they may work with. Make a simple flyer and distribute it to those places as well. Check with your local newspapers and news stations to see if they have sections or community calendars where you can advertise support group meetings.

Keep in mind that your meetings will probably not start with tons of people, but over time you will grow, you just have to stay with it.

A few additional tips:
1. Observe time limits. Start on time and finish at your pre-determined ending time.
2. Place chairs in a circle and close enough so attendees can hear one another.
3. Ask for help when you need it.

Good luck!

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Related Posts:
How to Start a Support Group
Getting Together with Other Birthmothers
Finding Support: One Birthmother’s Story