 Online support groups can be a great way for parents of adult children who live far away to connect with others going through similar experiences, to find comfort and support each other.
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How could joining an online support group help you?
Emotional support: You may feel like you’re the only one going through this, but you’re not. It’s common to feel loneliness, sadness, worry and even anger. An online support group can provide a safe space to share your feelings with others who understand what you’re going through. Group members can relate to your feelings and offer emotional support, encouragement, understanding and advice, without judgement.
Information sharing: Support groups can be a great source of information. Members can share tips and advice on staying connected with their adult children living far away. They can also share information about helpful resources such as travel websites, communication apps, and more.
Community: Being part of a support group can give you a sense of community and belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. Members connect with others going through similar experiences and build a sense of community. This can be especially helpful for parents who may not have friends or family nearby.
Increased resilience: Sharing your story and hearing from others who have gone through similar experiences helps build resilience. Members learn coping strategies from others and develop new skills for managing their emotions and staying connected with their children.
Availability: Online support groups offer flexibility in terms of when and where you can participate. This can be especially helpful for parents who have busy schedules or who live in remote areas.
Our lively Scattered Families Facebook group has almost 500 members around the world (at January 2024), sharing experiences and supporting each other. Â Discover how to join us here.