Group Peer Support

ICYMI: As we bid farewell to GPS Co-Founder Annette Cycon upon her retirement, we look back with gratitude at her long and courageous career as an advocate and provider of maternal mental health care and co-creator of the GPS model of peer support, which has helped countless people from a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences heal, find their strength and connect with their courage to take conscious steps towards the lives they want to live.

“GPS is about breaking down barriers to mental health care, especially for those people who would never go to a traditional mental health clinic, or where there are no resources, so that everyone can get the support they deserve, in their own language, community, and with people they trust,” she said.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4c1dHYb

: In a letter to the Boston Globe last year, GPS Cofounder and CEO Liz Friedman expressed concern that the state’s efforts to expand access to mental and behavioral health care could be hindered by a mental health crisis within the health care workforce. She noted that peer support groups tailored specifically for health care workers could help alleviate the crisis. Given the ongoing healthcare workforce shortage in MA and beyond, her sentiments remain relevant:

“In 2021, the Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association convened a Caring for the Caregiver Task Force to address burnout among health care workers. Chief among the task force’s recommendations are decreasing the stigma associated with seeking mental health services and creating work environments that encourage open discussion of mental health,” Friedman wrote. “One way to do this is by providing easy access to mental health support in the workplace. The state is currently funding peer support programs for the medical community aimed at improving mental health. Promising models should be expanded to health care facilities across the state.”

Read the full letter at the link.

State explores new ways to see to behavioral health needs - The Boston Globe Charlie Baker is recognized for addressing COVID-19 vaccinations, but concurrent behavioral health challenges didn’t receive prioritization until the recent announcement.

IT'S TRUE!

Speaking our truth is a revolutionary act.

Learn more at grouppeersupport.org

At GPS we believe that the most effective, impactful support groups are evidence-based—meaning that they are designed based on the objective findings of the best available current research.

Research has shown that peer support is an effective tool to support people’s mental health, especially those who work in the healthcare field. We draw on such research to develop GPS support groups.

A 2020 editorial by U.K. scholars Jill Maben and Jackie Bridges in the Journal of Clinical Nursing, for instance, emphasized the importance of peer support for nurses working through the COVID-19 pandemic, citing recent research and examples from previous similar crises.

Maben and Bridges developed guidance to support nurses’ psychological well-being in the pandemic that noted, “It can be helpful to accept and acknowledge that your own and others’ feelings of stress and distress are a normal response to an extraordinary situation, and that ‘it is okay not to be okay.’ … Talk to your colleagues who may well relate to what you’re experiencing and may be needing support themselves. Staff huddles or handovers can be useful ways to check in with each other, and shared breaks also present opportunities. Instigate and support opportunistic ‘team off-load’ time if opportunities are otherwise rare. Be sensitive to people’s different preferences – some will be more private and others more open, so adapt how you look out for them accordingly. Make sure other team members know if someone needs particular support during a shift.”

Read the editorial “Covid-19: Supporting nurses' psychological and mental health,” which includes links to the guidance at the link below.

Covid‐19: Supporting nurses' psychological and mental health The Journal of Clinical Nursing publishes research and developments relevant to all areas of nursing practice- community, geriatric, mental health, pediatric & more.

“What I love about this training is that we do a lot of modeling. So, we go through what the group experience is so you can really understand why the structures are important for the group dynamic.”

GPS trainings are interactive and provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the GPS approach. You can easily learn the model and begin using this impactful and evidence-based approach in your community! But don’t take our word for it. In this short video, hear what participants in our trainings have to say about their experience.

GPS training GPS Training

At GPS we believe that the most effective, impactful support groups are evidence-based—meaning that they are designed based on the objective findings of the best available current research.

For instance, we created MASStrong support groups in part as a response to multiple studies showing high rates of mental distress among frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find them on our website: https://bit.ly/49oC9BH

In tailoring the curriculum of the MASStrong groups, which were held on Zoom, to meet the mental health needs of healthcare workers in Massachusetts, we relied in part on a study that showed a high level of engagement among healthcare workers with digital resources that focused on normalizing psychological responses in times of crisis, and encouraging self-care and help-seeking behavior. The researchers also noted that peer support is a factor in reducing the likelihood of emotional distress among healthcare workers in pandemic situations.

The study, “Mitigating the Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers: A Digital Learning Package” was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2020. Find it here: https://bit.ly/3uzmL6p

In Augusta, ME, peer support groups are helping firefighters and their families deal with job-related trauma, stress, and other challenges. This is what peer support is for! Research shows that the single most important factor that determines physical and emotional health, as well as success, is social support.

The Augusta Fire Department’s Peer Support Team was started in 2021 by Chief Dave Groder, who sought to reduce low morale among firefighters by providing a place for them to discuss their experiences.

“I’ve been traumatized over my 37 years with a multitude of traumas, and I seek therapy," Groder told WMTW. “If you’re talking with somebody or even a peer after every call, get it out, talk about what your feelings are, then you’re better apt to survive a 25-year career.”

Learn more at the link.

Augusta Fire Department's 'peer support team' helps members' mental health How Augusta first responders are working to 'help the helpers'

Happy Juneteenth! , or , is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the U.S. The holiday has been called America’s second Independence Day.

As we celebrate this pivotal milestone in our nation’s history and honor the resilience and strength of Black Americans, let us recommit to fighting for justice and equality for all.

As we bid farewell to GPS Co-Founder Annette Cycon upon her retirement, we look back with gratitude at her long and courageous career as an advocate and provider of maternal mental health care and co-creator of the GPS model of peer support, which has helped countless people from a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences heal, find their strength and connect with their courage to take conscious steps towards the lives they want to live.

“GPS is about breaking down barriers to mental health care, especially for those people who would never go to a traditional mental health clinic, or where there are no resources, so that everyone can get the support they deserve, in their own language, community, and with people they trust,” she said.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4c1dHYb

Rest. Recharge. Refuel.

Our Black Leaders, People in Recovery, Open Support, and Grupo de Apoyo en Español para Latinas support groups will be on hiatus this summer.

We will see you again in the fall!

At GPS we believe that the most effective, impactful support groups are evidence-based—meaning that they are designed based on the objective findings of the best available current research.

One study on which we have relied in developing GPS support groups showed that a series of four interpersonal group therapy sessions was successful in preventing post-partum depression in low-income women at risk for the condition.

The structured groups, called Survival Skills for New Moms, were each an hour long and took place over four weeks. The first provided a rationale for the program and psychoeducation on “baby blues” and postpartum depression. The second group focused on role transitions and how to manage them, particularly the transition to motherhood. The third session addressed setting goals, developing supports, and identifying potential interpersonal conflicts, especially following the baby’s birth. The fourth taught skills for resolving interpersonal conflicts and reviewed the main themes of the intervention. Participants also received handouts based on the material presented in each session and session-related homework assignments.

Learn more: https://hubs.li/Q02dqg640

There is a strong body of research that supports the impact of support groups on emotional wellness, resilience, behavioral change, physical/emotional recovery as well as success with sustaining recovery from substance use. Support groups have been shown to be impactful for diverse populations including healthcare workforce, trauma survivors, refugees/immigrants and other unique populations.

Additionally, research shows that support groups are effective and impactful with diabetes management, cancer treatment, infertility treatment, recovery from addiction, bereavement, and mental health complications like depression and anxiety. GPS builds upon the strong foundation of research showing that support groups have an impact on wellness, resilience, and recovery.

See a small sampling of the research findings to support these understandings on our website: https://bit.ly/49oC9BH. Scroll to the section, “Peer Support for Healthcare.”

Important update on the Moms Matter Act! Please read and take action.

NEW ACTION ALERT ON THE MOMS MATTER ACT!

Even if you've written a letter already, please write again and spread the word -- this letter is now going to Health Care Financing AND the House Speaker, so they know there is widespread community support for the bill!

Some background:
Postpartum depression and other Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are the #1 complication of pregnancy, but most birthing people and other parents facing these mental health challenges do NOT receive care. Incidence is higher and treatment rates are lower for parents facing racial or economic inequities. The Massachusetts Mind the Gap Coalition is working hard to change things by passing the Moms Matter Act.

After a powerful hearing, the Moms Matter Act received a “favorable” report from the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery in March. It is now currently under consideration by the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing, with a “report out” deadline of July 3.

If the bill does NOT receive a favorable report by this deadline -- NOW THREE WEEKS AWAY -- we lose our chance to pass it this legislative session!

Can you help? Click the link in comments to add your name -- it just takes a minute!

Huge thanks to our legislative champions Brandy Fluker Oakley State Representative 12th Suffolk District State Senator Liz Miranda and Steering Committee Women of Color Health Equity Collective - The Collective Ashley Sarah Propa City Community Outreach The EMA Project Neighborhood Birth Center Bay State Birth Coalition March of Dimes Amanda Hollis Garaffo

No matter who we are or where we come from, we all face challenges. Research shows that the single most important factor in physical and emotional health, as well as success, is social support. Everyone thrives in a community of support, especially when times are tough.

Interested in launching a GPS group in your community or organization? We’d love to help you get started.

In this free webinar, GPS Program Director Nelly Willis and GPS Master Trainer Crystal Gurney will teach you the basics of starting a group. They cover a range of topics including marketing, outreach to community providers, deciding on closed or open groups, participant intakes, online vs. in-person groups, using social media, and safety protocols.

Launching Your Own GPS Support Group Recorded Wed, Jan 31, from 2-3 pm EST Launching a GPS group for the first time in your community or organization? Learn how to bring GPS Group Peer Support t...

ICYMI: Partner Spotlight: Perinatal Support Washington

Learn about our longtime partnership with Perinatal Support Washington and the impact of our evidence-based GPS Perinatal Groups on participating parents.

“I love the connection to my baby, we are one. This group has shown me that parenting isn’t easy, but there’s ways to help you get through it when it seems rough and there’s people to talk to,” said one.

More: https://bit.ly/3QGvTO6

Thank you, Sage Therapeutics!

Following the birth of her son, Liz began experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD) and knew she needed help. After discovering that no local support group for new mothers existed, Liz was determined to take matters into her own hands and start one herself.​
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"Through Group Peer Support, we're ensuring every mother can access the social support they need – the support I needed all those years ago."​
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We continue to be inspired by those who are on the frontlines of maternal mental health care and are the true agents of change. Thank you, Liz and the entire Group Peer Support team, for your dedicated efforts in providing community and care. To learn more about their work, visit: https://bit.ly/3VwoiEE

No matter who we are or where we come from, we all face challenges. At GPS, we believe that we are born whole. Hurt happens, but healing is possible. We can succeed and thrive even though we have struggled.

Peer support can help. Research shows that social support is the single most important factor in determining physical and emotional health. The GPS Group Peer Support approach is a trauma-responsive support group model based on evidence-informed modalities that has been replicated in diverse communities nationally. Learn more at grouppeersupport.org.

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month! This is a time to commemorate and celebrate the movement for LGBTQ+ liberation and equality in the U.S.

It’s also a good time to raise awareness of the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ people face and how they potentially affect individuals’ mental and behavioral health. For instance, LGBTQ people experience higher rates of family rejection, discrimination, and bullying or other abuse. These experiences can cause trauma, elevated substance use, and thoughts of su***de among other issues. Moreover, LGBTQ+ people often have difficulty accessing culturally competent, judgment-free mental health care.
has helpful free resources to help providers better respond to the needs of LGBTQ+ people and patients find the mental health care they need.

Learn more: bit.ly/3Vm4G66

ICYMI: GPS Project Manager Marcy Langrock applies a broad range of skills that keeps our organization going, from finance and tech to administration and marketing.

She’s also a certified GPS Support Group Facilitator who launched a support group in her Seattle community for the parents of children with autism. As the parent of two autistic children, Langrock knew well the challenges families like her faced and she wanted to create a space where she and other parents could safely share difficult truths.

“You have the ‘experts’ giving you advice, but you’re the parent, you’re the one who knows your kids the best and they don’t always need what the experts say,” said Langrock. “I wanted to create a space where parents can get together and share to those very hard things that aren’t easy to say out loud.”

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3y4GFr9

Caregiving for a loved can be difficult and stressful! Caregivers are also at risk for social isolation and loneliness, which takes a toll on their health and wellbeing. It’s gratifying to see that on Cape Cod, caregivers can access a weekly peer support group online just for them.

According to Laura H. Roskos, development and public information officer for Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, the support groups, established during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been “quite meaningful for participants:”

“One male caregiver, who has attended for over two years, has said that he never expected to ‘feel so understood and supported by a bunch of strangers who are now dear friends,’” Roskos writes in this op-ed for the Cape Cod Times. “Another group member shared that ‘touching base every Tuesday with my people keeps me from despair and madness. At least I know I’m not alone.’”

That is the power of peer support.

Older Americans Month: This year's theme: 'Powered by Connection' A peer support group is a way of connecting with others whose situation bears some resemblance to your own.

Today is , when we honor those who died while serving our country in the U.S. military. As we remember their sacrifice, GPS remains ever hopeful for peace and unity in this world.

ICYMI: Nallely (Nelly) Willis already had extensive experience running support groups when she enrolled in a GPS facilitator training, so she didn’t think she had much to learn when she walked into her first GPS group. She quickly learned she was wrong.

“I felt a validation. It was a validation that I didn’t even know I needed. I felt seen,” she said.

The group started Nallely on a path of personal and professional transformation. Today, she serves as GPS’s Program Director and Director of GPS en Español, overseeing all GPS programs, adapting materials for Spanish-language groups, and more.

“GPS is a bridge that’s filling gaps in the healthcare system,” she said. “When I found GPS, I didn’t really know that I needed support.”

Learn more: bit.ly/3y4N7yf