Support Groups in Australia for Mental Health

[Truetomyself]

Hi
I went with a friend of mine to their AA meeting as they asked me to come as a support person and I was very happy to.
I found the meeting insightful and my friend is finding them helpful too.
I am just wondering, I see a psychiatrist and counsellor for what I deal with regarding my mental health.
When I was in hospital it was helpful to talk about my experiences and what my week or day was like. Or if we just needed to be understood by someone going through the same thing.
I know there are help lines, and forums and thank goodness.
I have tried researching if there are just groups you can go to where others share and are able to talk to each other.
I am based in South Australia. I work but want to know if anything like this is available.
I really think it would help to just go to a meeting if you are up to it and express what you are struggling with, what challenges you have or wins with people who get you.
I know this would be useful for myself. I would of course continue to see my professional sources but they are not available and often appointments can not just be made by clicking your fingers.
Is there something available that anyone can let me know about or what is as I have searched the internet and had no luck. If there is nothing, how and are you allowed to start something?
Thanks in advance.

[Soberlicious96]

Dear TrueToMyself,

That is so great that you went to support your friend at their AA group! .... by the time I got to AA, which is almost 23 years ago now (sober since my first meeting) I had NO friends left to support me. They'd all had enough of my bad behavior. And yeah, I absolutely love AA these days. I've often said it's tailor made for me, and have many times found myself thinking "I wish there was a similar program for those who have issues other than alcohol."

And maybe there is, kind of? I have heard of an organization called 'Grow' and have been led to believe that it is similar to AA? Anyway, here's the address for the 'Grow' website (just copy it and past it into your browser address bar) - https://www.grow.org.au/ - and the number to call is 1800 558 268. I don't know a lot about Grow, but I do think it could be worth looking into, from what you are describing.

I hope that helps a little. In the meantime, you can certainly keep coming back here for help and support as much as you need. Bearing in mind, I for one, am not a professional, so I can only help so much. But I am happy to help out where and when I can. As I'm sure are others on here also.

Take care. And good luck with everything. And if you want to, let me know how you go with the Grow thing. xo

[Croix]

Dear Truetomyself:

You are absolutely right, for many people being in a group of those with similar experiences really does support, and your own presence contributes. They do come in two flavors, those led by a professional, and those where the members themselves run the group.

Finding what is available in your area, and which might be best does require a little digging

I'd start you off with:

https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/getting-help/clinics-support-groups/other-support-groups

plus of course our own 24/7 Help Line (1300 22 4636). I'd expect even your State Library may keep a record.

Croix

[Truetomyself]

Thank you for that. I have been looking into GROW and found a group near me.
I love coming in here and being able to share and ask questions. But I do like talking with others.
Often you can't talk to everyone as they get it to a point. But sometimes you need time with people who place no judgement and just get it.
I was happy to support my friend. We all have a story and I know alcohol and drug abuse is a disease. I never judge anyone as everyone has their own battles. I think we all need someone to just be there. I was happy to do it and I learnt even more.
I will give it a go and will let you know.
Thanks for your help, I appreciate it.
Good on you for your sobriety and attending AA.

[Truetomyself]

Thank you for your help.
I will also look into what you have suggested.
It definitely takes a lot of digging but I am prepared to do it.
Thank you for your help,
It is appreciated.