Divorce is difficult, no matter how prepared you are for the process. When facing divorce, you often find yourself asking, “Why?” What many people don’t realize is that the aftermath of even the most amicable divorce leads to various emotions and issues. There is a grieving period, even when the parties are consumed with anger. 

Most people dealing with divorce feel like they are alone. If your circle of friends has never been through it, they may not understand the feeling. Legal advice is great for the nuts and bolts of the divorce proceedings, but it likely won’t be helpful with the emotional part of the process. 

Self-care only goes so far in alleviating the pain that comes with divorce. When you are feeling overwhelmed with emotion, a support group could be the ticket to finding peace through the process. 

What Is a Divorce Support Group? 

After your divorce in Georgia, you may feel lost and alone. A divorce support group may be just the help you need. These groups are groups of people who meet either online or in-person to share experiences with each other and attempt to process the various emotions associated with no longer being married. 

Some divorce support groups use a specific topic or theme to guide the discussions. For example, some groups focus on co-parenting issues, groups for those who recently went through a divorce and groups focus on life as someone who is dating again after a divorce. Groups may also be geared toward specific populations like age, gender, ethnicity, or population. 

What Happens at a Divorce Support Group Meeting? 

The meetings vary in structure based on the group. Typically, these groups are led by a coach, therapist, host, or peer counselor who helps guide the discussion and keep the group on track. Groups may also vary in size. Small groups can be just three people, while larger groups can grow to fifty or more people. 

One of the first steps to determining if a group is right for you is deciding whether the confidentiality policy meets your needs. These groups are like other support groups in that they value confidentiality. This is to keep it a safe share zone. Participants won’t share their trials and stories if they don’t feel safe to do so. 

Online Divorce Support Groups

One of the great things about living in the technological age we currently live in is the ability to access various services from the comfort of home. Divorce support groups can now be held online via Zoom, Google Meet, or some other video conferencing method. Usually, online groups are led by a divorce coach or a therapist. 

Leaders encourage conversation in a structured environment. They promote give-and-take discussions between participants. Ultimately, the goal is for members of the group to feel safe, validated, and satisfied with the group session. 

In-person Divorce Support Groups

In-person divorce support groups share a similar goal to online groups. They want thoughtful discussion and confidential support. Participants meet in person, which can sometimes feel intimidating to first-time participants. Don’t feel pressured to participate in the meetings; it’s perfectly acceptable to observe for a time before you share. 

Many in-person meetings happen in churches, libraries, community centers, or medical buildings. The public nature of the building doesn’t mean that anyone can show up. Some meetings are closed, meaning you must be a member or someone seeking membership to attend. Others are open to everyone. 

How Do You Find a Divorce Support Group? 

People think that finding support groups seems difficult, but the truth is that it can be easier than it sounds like it is. Here are some ways to get started: 

·       Speak to someone at the local church to learn if they host a group.

·       Ask your attorney to help you find a group.

·       Speak to your doctor or therapist to learn tips for finding the right support group for you.

·       Check the Psychology Today website for divorce support groups in Georgia. 

·       Research the resources in your community. 

Closing Thoughts

When dealing with the aftermath of a divorce in Georgia, you might consider joining a support group to help you handle the emotions of the situation. Support groups are confidential meetings that allow people to share their stories and experiences with each other. These groups aren’t as difficult to find as you might think. Call one of the friendly attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum, P.C., at 678-580-4437 to discuss the support groups in your area.