Good quality Aspergers support groups help children and adults with the disorder as well as the families who care for them. Reduce the stress of living with Asperger syndrome by finding and accepting support from peers and professionals.
Explore the Benefits
When people think about support groups, they may picture a round table of people commiserating about the disadvantages and hardships of their particular situation. This style of group support remains invaluable, but more contemporary Asperger groups often combine support with camaraderie, fun and learning. This section outlines some of the important benefits all types of group support for Asperger can provide.
- Exposure to honest patient and family advocacy information
- Useful information exchanges with other Asperger families
- A valuable feeling of familiarity from people in similar situations
- Proactive encouragement and objective empathy
- Freedom from the isolation of day-to-day living
- Practical advice concerning coping, treatment and play activities
- Strategies for building relationships around Asperger syndrome
- Feelings of value from the act of helping others
- Exposure to art, music and educational activities
- Anonymity when talking over sensitive topics (online groups)
- Ability to participate entirely on your schedule (online groups)
Types of Aspergers Support Groups
The days when group support for families living with developmental disorders took place in stuffy settings and uncomfortable chairs are over. Experts agree that mere discussion may not provide families with everything they need from group-based support. Emerging technology and increased awareness brings modern solutions to the table for people coping with Asperger syndrome. Browse the different and innovative kinds of Asperger support in the sections below.
Support Groups for Primary Care Providers
Parents and caregivers expend a vast amount of energy taking care of Asperger children, often neglecting their own personal needs. To help these people find solutions for serious issues related to the health and well being of their child, discussion groups for adults may offer a specialized range of answers. In addition to finding proven strategies related to the care of Asperger patients, caregivers also gain a sense of understanding by communicating with people in similar situations. You can find discussion-based Aspergers support groups for care givers by accessing the resources in your community.
Activity-Based Support for Parents and Children
In recent years, support groups that feature fun activities have emerged onto the Asperger resource scene. These groups typically offer discussion times interspersed with casual activities in which both children and caregivers may participate. The specific benefits associated with activity and discussion support systems include relaxation, idea sharing, exercise, socialization for children and adults, and networking. Check out the list below for activity-based support group ideas.
- Art groups
- Music appreciation groups
- Sports activity groups
- Craft workshops
- Cooking groups
The success of activity-centered support lies in a relaxed and casual atmosphere, frank discussions, cultivation of camaraderie and a focus on group events as opposed to solitary endeavors. If you can't find a group like this in your area, consider getting together with other care givers and creating one.
Young Adult Support Groups for Asperger Syndrome
High-functioning teens and young adults with Aspergers may need support groups to maintain their confidence and independence. Most of these groups feature honest discussion about school and job challenges, coping with co-workers and social integration issues. Sometimes, young adult groups take part in community outings such as dinner, movies, swimming or bowling. The social skills and understanding they gain from this kind of support helps ease their transition into the next phase of adult life with Aspergers.
Listen to Instinct
People living with Asperger have different support needs based on level of functioning, age, lifestyle and personal beliefs. To find Aspergers support groups that best meets your needs, pay attention to the instinct you've developed from living with an Asperger-affected family member.
