A support group is not a substitute for the support of family and friends but can be helpful in providing an opportunity to:
- make new friends and enjoy the social opportunities support groups offer
- extend your support team which can make it easier to get the help you need, when you need it
- provide support to those who care for you
- minimise feelings of isolation and having to cope with Parkinson’s alone
- share personal experiences and learn from each other how to cope with the physical and emotional aspects of Parkinson’s
- share practical ideas to help with day-to-day living and difficulties experienced
- share medical information and sources of information on Parkinson’s
- share concerns with people outside your close family and friends, with whom it may be easier to talk with
- learn about clinical trials and opportunities to participate in them, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor before committing yourself.
A personal perspective
Rasma Zlatkuviene (Lithuania)
“I retired after working 37 years as an English Language school teacher. ‘When God closes a door, He opens a window’. For five years I had lived behind the closed door fighting with fear, depression and hopelessness. The open window is true friends in local, national and international Parkinson’s Associations with whom I share not only my skills and ideas, but also my heart.”
