MHM Magazine

44 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2022 | Issue 6 MHM SADAG has over 160 Support Groups around the country dealing with a variety of mental health related issues, as well as Support Groups specifically for family members and loved ones. SADAG guides and trains new Support Group Leaders on running a group step-by-step. We help with training webinars, materials, handouts, information and more. Being a mother is an overlooked and underappreciated job, but any mom knows just how taxing and demanding this role can be. When depression and anxiety are added to the mix, being a mother can become overwhelming. Mothers are the pillars of society and it’s vital to acknowledge their challenges and provide them with support when they need it. This month’s featured Group is the Depression and Anxiety Support Group for Moms Support Group hosted by Lisa Drummond. Lisa’s Support Group offers a safe space for mothers with depression and anxiety. Mothers in this predicament are often faced with the idea that they need to be perfect and should not be struggling. In the safety of the Group, mothers can be vulnerable and discuss their problems and difficulties in a non-judgemental space where they will find support from others who understand exactly what they may be going through. Some words from Lisa: Why did you start this particular support Group? As a mom living with both depression and anxiety, I realised that moms in this situation have a unique set of circumstances that make it difficult for others to understand. We often have this expectation of ourselves to be the perfect moms, the supportive partners, the strong one that keeps the family going, and so it’s very difficult to admit when we’re struggling, when we’re feeling down, or when we’re no longer coping. Often we feel like a failure and that we’re alone in this failure. Meeting up with other moms who have similar experiences and problems is hugely beneficial in dispelling this myth. What are the benefits of joining this Support Group? Knowing that you’re not alone, that there are people out there, moms out there, that understand and share some of your experiences and struggles, immediately makes you feel better, gives you hope and allows a safe space to express yourself and find support Who can join this Group? Any moms over 18 who are living with depression or anxiety. What do you hope to achieve with this Group?  I hope to create a safe, supportive, non-judgemental space for moms to come together and be heard, understood and uplifted . MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUP FOR LOVED ONES AND CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Depression and Anxiety Support Group for Moms