Support Groups
Support Group Vetting Checklist
A support group can be helpful, but it should be safe enough for what you are carrying. This checklist helps you ask wise questions before sharing deeply.
Quick Answer
Before joining a support group, ask about confidentiality, leadership, crisis procedures, treatment views, and whether therapy or medication is respected.
What this page covers:
- Questions to ask
- Warning signs
- How to start slowly
- Download the checklist
A gentle note: Still Here Faith offers Christian encouragement and resource navigation, not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, pastoral counseling, crisis care, or emergency care.
If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, call emergency services, call or text 988 in the U.S., or text HOME to 741741. Therapy, medication, pastoral care, and medical support can all be part of faithful care.
Questions to ask
- Who leads the group?
- Is this peer support or professional counseling?
- What are the confidentiality rules?
- What happens if someone is in crisis?
- Does the group respect therapy and medication?
- Can I attend without sharing much at first?
Warning signs
- Guaranteed healing promises.
- Pressure to disclose private details quickly.
- Medication or therapy shaming.
- No crisis plan.
- Leaders who dismiss safety concerns.
Start slowly
You can attend once, listen, and decide later. You do not owe a group your whole story on day one.
One tiny next step
Download the checklist and use it before attending or sharing deeply in a new group.
Helpful sources and starting points
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - 24/7 U.S. crisis support by call, text, or chat.
- SAMHSA Find Help - Treatment and support starting points in the U.S.
- NAMI HelpLine - Mental health education, support, and advocacy resources.
External links are starting points, not endorsements. If you are in immediate danger, call emergency services or call/text 988 in the U.S.
📖 Free Guide
Download the checklist
Use the printable support group vetting checklist before joining or sharing deeply.