Do you feel that some internet support groups prevent growth, and enable unhealthy behavior?

Question

The stronger I grow, the more I've began to notice, that many internet support groups, are not really helping people. Of course, when one is not thinking clearly, is feeling lonely, and no one is there, communicating with others who feel the same may give the ILLUSION of support, but it's really ENABLING dysfunctional behavior, and contributing to isolation if there is no action.

I belong to a few groups ran by moderators, who have been posting years about the same problems, isues, ect. They have all the answers, know what should be done, and have made small steps, but they are basically where they were when they started the group. Sadly, people join these groups, and follow the same patterns. It's unbelievable, almost insanity. Retelling the same painful stories, over, and over, but making no major changes.

Also, the moment someone posts an optimistic message, and would prefer to discuss the pain, but empowerment as well, they are almost ostracized, or viewed as a threat.

I used to compare them to pity parties, but it's a little bit more. Almost as if, members are competing to see who has had the worst life. Support groups can be helpful, but there must be some action to improve, otherwise, the group will prolong the dysfunction. Also, the moment someone posts an optimistic message, and would prefer to discuss the pain, but empowerment as well, they are almost ostracized, or viewed as a threat. I'm planning to unsubscribe from a lot of groups, and focus only on those with the future in mind, rather than just the past and present. So far, I have not found any that seem to be on that path. Maybe I need to try a new category other than mental health for people dealing with anxiety, depression, ect.

Actually, I think maybe the answer may be to limit time on the internet completely, and spend more time seeking "real time" support. Maybe that's why I haven't found people making true progress. They're offline taking action, and rarely online. Just a thought.

Answer 1

I agree. I was a member to a few groups and it kinda made me feel worse. I dwelled on my problems more causing me to have more panic attacks and anxiety attacks. Then reading some of the posts and peoples diagnoses and symptoms, made me think, "oh god, I feel like that sometimes, do I have what they have?" And on and on.

Answer 2

Uhhhhh.......what you said