- Giving everyone who wishes to a chance to talk.
- Giving the speaker undivided attention, without interruption and side conversations.
- Making it clear that what is said at the meeting is confidential.
- Offering access to everyone without bias.
- Making the group a safe place to share by treating others with respect and compassion.
You may wish to write a short introduction stating the principles of your group, and read it at the beginning of meetings. A typical agenda would include introductions, a quick check-in to report how each person is doing, and then time for everyone to share how they are doing in more detail. You may also want to include time to discuss specific topics, or to invite speakers occasionally for educational purposes.
Once you’ve found a meeting place, picked your meeting days and times, and planned your first meeting, the next step is to publicize it. Call your local newspapers and radio/TV stations to find out how to get a community announcement printed or aired.
You may also want to make a flier to distribute to hospitals, community mental health centers, doctors’ offices, and other public locations.
The important thing is to get started. You can fine-tune the program and find additional ways to promote it later. DBSA’s start-up guide for support groups includes toolkits with samples such as fliers and notices, as well as a detailed plan of action.
