Guide to Support Groups for Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse

The purpose of an adult survivor child abuse group or (ASCA) is to support people who share the same kind of trauma or abuse issues. These types of groups are designed to be a safe haven for adult survivors. It gives them the opportunity to meet together, and share their personal issues in a confidential setting, and gain helpful feedback from other adult survivors of childhood abuse. Although the degree of abuse varies, everyone comes from different back grounds; the adult survivors share a common thread. All of the people have been victimized and wounded in some negative inappropriate way as a child. Adult Survivors' of Child Abuse need to be validated and understood and this supportive network or support group does this for many people.

In groups that I have attended I have been taught cognitive skills on how to deal with anger properly, how to stop co-dependent behaviors, and how to eat different foods that boost brain chemicals such as serotonin, that can help you cope with your abuse issues or depression. Depending on the group, you will learn how to love yourself and take care of the wounded part of you, getting advice from people in the group that want to give you insight or advice. Listening to others share their stories, you may be able to encourage someone to either share their pain or to get through a hurdle or obstacle that you may have already gone through. Everyone in attendance is on a different level of healing. The information and the level of support from adult survivor groups are invaluable.

New to the Adult Survivor/Childhood Abuse Support Group

If you are a new added member to the group there is no need to feel out of place. You are greeted and welcomed. You won't be pressured to tell your story or give out any information that you don't feel comfortable giving. You may simply sit and listen after you have properly introduced yourself. Most people are nice and want you to get what you need from the group to be a better person. If you do share your story the famous line you'll here is "Thanks for Sharing".

Pros

1. Get tips on how to deal with your particular problem
2. You are surrounding yourself with others that understand your pain
3. You may gain new friends
4. Learn new coping skills
5. Get Support from others who care about your well being

Cons

1. Everyone attending these groups are not trustworthy people
2. You may encounter adult survivors who are sexual abusers (attending the group for help)
3. You might get feedback, you don't like(get tough skin)
4. Admitting you are a survivor in front of new strangers may be difficult