Welcome to M.E.C.S.A.S. Peer Support Group

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FIRST IN PERSON MEETING – JANUARY 26th 2025

In person meetings every other SUNDAY

6:30PM – 7:30PM

@ Healing Centered Counseling

Meeting space generously donated by:
Healing Centered Counseling
4933 Benchmark Centre Dr Suite E, Swansea, IL 62226

(LOCATED ON BACK OF BUILDING)
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January 2025
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“Shame dies when stories are told in safe places.”

Promoting connection, hope, and healing, with adult peers (18+) of the Metro East (IL) community who have also suffered from childhood sexual abuse.

All genders, religions, sexual orientations, and walks of life are welcome!


The group’s purpose is to provide a safe, in-person space where members can discuss their emotions and circumstances with others who understand their experiences, and relate to how they feel.


Our goals are to share our stories, learn from each other, develop a sense of community, and travel the path of healing together.

 

But why should I join a peer support group?

-“Peer support, defined as a form of social-emotional support offered by an individual with a shared lived experience, has been reported as being effective in improving a variety of mental health outcomes in differing populations.” *

– Research has shown that individuals who participate in group programs experience reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem, and increased resilience. **

-Peer groups can improve interpersonal relationships. ***

-While participating in a group program, individuals can learn how to communicate effectively, develop empathy, and build trust with others. ***

-Support groups can also help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. ***

Citations:
*: Richard J, Rebinsky R, Suresh R, Kubic S, Carter A, Cunningham JEA, Ker A, Williams K, Sorin M. Scoping review to evaluate the effects of peer support on the mental health of young adults. BMJ Open. 2022 Aug 4;12(8):e061336. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061336. PMID: 35926986; PMCID: PMC9358944.
**: Konya, J., Perôt, C., Pitt, K., Johnson, E., Gregory, A., Brown, E., … Campbell, J. (2020). Peer-led groups for survivors of sexual abuse and assault: a systematic review. Journal of Mental Health, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638237.2020.1770206
***: Solomon P. Peer support/peer provided services underlying processes, benefits, and critical ingredients. Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2004;27(4):392–401. doi: 10.2975/27.2004.392.401.

M.E.C.S.A.S. Rules and Guidelines: 

(must be 18+)

1- Must be on time to group meetings.

2- All members must follow confidentiality rules.

    (See confidentiality agreement.)

3- All genders, sexual orientations, religions, and walks of life are welcome.

4- Be respectful of others.

     -No interrupting.

     -No cross talk.

     -No monopolizing the conversation.

     -Never compare yours or another person’s 

      trauma to another’s.

     -Communicate respectfully with others, no harsh language, no offensive speech.

5- Respect others’ boundaries.

6- Keep an open mind.

7- Be empathetic. 

8- Always be civil.

9- Be an active listener.

10- No unsolicited advice.

11- No threatening behavior. 

         -Violence, threats, manipulation, and other types of threatening behavior will not be tolerated.

 (Will result in immediate removal from group.)

12- Keep relationships with all group members professional.

         – Group dynamics may suffer if members date one another or become close friends outside of group. These relationships can be pursued once the group permanently disbands.

13- No one may attend group while under the influence of any controlled substances.

14- Must abide by all set rules and laws.

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