The Self-Help Group as a Vehicle for Helping Individuals Cope with Physical Health Problems

摘要

This publication discusses self-help groups as mechanisms allowing patients, primarily with chronic disorders, to cope with their illnesses. Discussed are characteristics of self-help groups, which have been divided into four groups: (1) those engaged in rehabilitative work, such as United Ostomy Association or Mastectomy, Inc.; (2) those concerned with behavioral change, such as Alcoholic Anonymous or Weight Watchers; (3) those operating primarily with persons suffering from chronic diseases in which there is no cure, such as American Diabetic Association or Emphysema Anonymous; and (4) those concerned with preventing and case finding, such as those involved with preventing heart attacks.