Start a Support Group
Support groups are an integral part of the recovery process. They are a tool not only for learning new strategies to avoid pulling or picking, but also help to end the isolation and shame so often felt by those who suffer from these behaviors. By becoming a support group leader, you are joining the fight to end the stigma and shame associated with trichotillomania and skin picking, as well as truly helping others to achieve a pull- or pick-free reality.
TLC will actively support your efforts to start and lead a group. The links below provide some guidelines for starting a group in your area. TLC staff is also available for guidance and advice.
If you are in the process of starting a support group, or if you lead a group already, you may want to join the TLC's email support list for group leaders. The group is exclusively for organizers and facilitators of trichotillomania and skin picking support groups to share ideas about how to get started, keep members motivated, and get the most out of the group experience. Go to http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/TLCGroupLeaders to join.
If you have a group or are starting one, let TLC know! We have a variety of ways to help you spread the word about your meetings.
TLC offers a monthly conference call with Christina Pearson for current leaders of peer support groups and individuals who are seeking to form a support group. The purpose of the call is to help new and existing groups grow and flourish by discussing issues and problems that may arise, ideas for staying motivated and fresh, ways to increase attendance, and more.The call will take place at 5:30pm PST/8:30pm EST on the third Tuesday of each month, unless it falls on a major holiday. It is not a toll-free call, so you will incur normal evening rates. To join the call, dial 1-218-486-1600 and enter PIN: 745954#.