Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of other group members. Any information shared within the group stays within the group, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to the participant or others.
Respect each other’s time: Please arrive on time so the group can begin promptly and have enough time for all members to share and participate.
Participate: Talking about some issues can be difficult, but ultimately the benefit you gain from being in a group is related to the effort you put in to participate. Participation takes many different forms: listening carefully to other group members, contributing to group discussions or suggesting topics of conversation.
Use “I” statements: When sharing your opinion, thoughts, feelings and experiences, use statements that start with “I statements,” such as “I think,” “I feel,” “In my experience” or “When that happened to me, I.” Others in the group have different points of view or have experienced something differently. Using “I” statements gives everyone an opportunity to share what things are like for them.
Group Guidelines
Maintain an attitude of caring, fellowship and support.
Responses to others must be non-judgmental.
One person speaks at a time. Late callers may not be able to share.
Leaders will manage group conflicts and disruptions. Members may be muted if necessary.
We are a support group only. If you’re in crisis, you may be referred to your physician, therapist or a crisis hotline such as 988. We care about you and want the best for you.
Abusive talk and cursing are not tolerated, nor is discussion of illicit drugs, sex, politics or religion.
Confidentiality will be maintained: what is shared in the group stays in the group. In emergencies, confidentiality will not be upheld.
Group Norms
Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of other group members. Any information shared within the group stays within the group, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to the participant or others.
Respect each other’s time: Please arrive on time so the group can begin promptly and have enough time for all members to share and participate.
Participate: Talking about some issues can be difficult, but ultimately the benefit you gain from being in a group is related to the effort you put in to participate. Participation takes many different forms: listening carefully to other group members, contributing to group discussions or suggesting topics of conversation.
Use “I” statements: When sharing your opinion, thoughts, feelings and experiences, use statements that start with “I statements,” such as “I think,” “I feel,” “In my experience” or “When that happened to me, I.” Others in the group have different points of view or have experienced something differently. Using “I” statements gives everyone an opportunity to share what things are like for them.
Group Guidelines
We keep things confidential
We listen with respect, non-judgement, and compassion
We ask permission before offering advice or suggestions
We see the individual as unique and separate from symptoms or mental health condition
We have zero tolerance for bullying or harassment
We speak to what we have personally experienced
We value diversity and varied perspectives
We remind people of their worth and value with an environment of hope
We understand that treatment is necessary, and there are unique paths to wellness and recovery through community
We acknowledge that those recovering from psychosis often show great resilience, courage, creativity, originality, empathy, compassion, perseverance, humor, and gratitude; as these are our strengths
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Policy Action Network
SPAN is focused on policy advocacy and action opportunities.
S&PAA provides broader resources across research, education,
care and advocacy for people affected by schizophrenia and
psychosis disorders.
