Are support groups on the internet safe?

Answer 1

Many online support groups are safe.
Google the subject you are looking with a search string similar to the below, substituting the kind of support you need where I put arthritis ..."arthritis support group" "arthritis forum" "arthritis chat" ... etc ... WITH the quotation marks.
Chose a few and check them out.
Here is what I have personally found ....
Those that require you to register are often safer, and better moderated.
A moderated group is best.
Even if you feel safe, use a screen name, don't give out address, phone number, etc, and get a seperate email address to use specifically for corresponding with people in groups and forums, and make sure your real name is not in the header of the emails.

At some point, you may make some best friends, and want to share more information and perhaps meet in person. Just always listen to your gut reaction, and apply to yourself the same kind of safety measures you would suggest to a friend.

I have been part of a number of excellent, quite safe and very helpful groups, and highly recommend it.

Enjoy!!

Answer 2

I am trying a group now and i think that some are safe but you need to be picky who you choose.