Virtual Therapy
With the advanced technology today, it is possible to get almost access to almost anything virtually. This is not limited to therapy. In an article by Sarah Zang, she interviewed an individual, who went by Christopher, who found out his wife had been unfaithful and his daughter was not biologically his. Christopher struggled with dealing with his divorce while also seeking help from a therapist. These things can be costly which can further negatively affect a person's mental health.
This individual realized how much the copayments for his therapy sessions were adding up, so his therapist suggested he join an online support group. Upon doing research Christopher found these online support groups were available 24/7, free and discreet, and there were many other people dealing with the same situation. These groups are a safe place for people to talk about what they were dealing with and their secrets without feeling the shame of people knowing their identity.
To a person hearing about this for the first time, this can sound doubtful their identity will be safe or they will even benefit from joining and participating in these groups. These groups are often locked, secret, and unsearchable. Meaning a person has to be invited by the admin to join the group. This avoids trolls, stalkers, or people who have nothing to do with the topic of the group. This makes Facebook groups a safe space for emotionally vulnerable individuals who feel they have no one to talk to about their issues with. Often in life, we are faced with challenges our friends and families can not relate to or we are embarrassed to talk about these things and these virtual support groups are an easy and safe outlet. Topics in these groups can range from being diagnosed with a rare disease, to dealing with a miscarriage, divorce, and many more.
These groups should be promoted further targetted to those who need it. Studies have shown these groups make individuals feel safe, heard, and understood. Not only can these groups make an individual feel better, but they can save lives. A Facebook group for those struggling with their mental health saved the lives of two individuals. These people turned to the group at their lowest moment to say they were going to end it all. The fellow group members were able to get a hold of their family and friends in time. The power of these groups is incredible. Not only can they save lives, they can also offer advice to someone struggling with the same issue or disease which can make a huge turning point in that individual's life. These groups can be promoted by therapists, in addition to therapy sessions. Facts and statistics can accompany the reasons why a person should join this group. These groups can also be promoted more on the internet since precautions are taken either way before granting a person access to the group. Virtual Facebook support groups are a very safe place for people looking for such, and everyone should be made aware of them.
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