3. Common concerns

Online support groups can be a valuable source of information, advice and emotional support during difficult times. It is only natural to be a little nervous or uncertain about them if you haven't used them before.

It is useful to think about any concerns you may have, especially when trying to decide what type of online support group is right for you. They are not all the same, so it is best to think about these issues now in order to stay safe and benefit from your online experience.

Select the boxes in turn to learn how each common concern can be addressed.

"Is it safe and anonymous?"

"Will I get bad advice?"

"What if nobody responds when I ask for support?"

"Will it make me feel worse?"

"What if someone in the group is unpleasant to me?"

"I am not very quick at typing, is that a problem?"

"I'd prefer to just browse through messages for now, is that okay?"

"I feel too embarrassed to share my story"

"How often am I expected to participate?"