BRAIN INJURY CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP GUIDELINES

• Confidentiality is a basic requirement. What is shared in the group must stay in the group. Recording of group meetings or dissemination of discussions shared in the group is strictly prohibited.

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• Please limit your sharing to a reasonable amount of time, so everyone has an opportunity to share and to ensure that one person does not dominate the group sharing time.

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• We are here to support one another, not “fix” anyone’s situation. This keeps us focused on our own issues. We can offer suggestions but should not try to solve someone else’s problems in our time of sharing. Share from your personal experience, say "this is what helped me" or "when I was faced with this problem, I ..." Please don't pile on advice unless asked to.

 

• If you become uncomfortable with what someone has said in the group, please bring it to the Moderator privately so the issue can be discussed without embarrassment.  The Moderator may ask the other member to limit certain discussions that trigger negative emotions.

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• Differences of opinion are OK. We are all entitled to our own point of view. 

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• Its everyone's responsibility to make the group a safe place to share. Treat each other with respect and kindness. Show compassion and respect always.

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• Its OK not to share.  People do not need to actively participate; much can be gained by just listening. Feel free to say "I would like to Pass on this " when it comes to your turn to speak.

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• The Moderator may interrupt you.  This is to keep the meeting on track. Please don’t be offended.

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•  If you need to leave Group Meeting before it concludes, please feel free to do so at anytime.  You do not need to announce your departure.  We all understand the need to take care of urgent matters.  You are also welcome to come back into the meeting without announcement at any time.

 

• Please contact the moderator if you have suggestions for changes to the Support Group Agenda or Process. This group belongs to the Care Givers and everyone should have a say in the format and topics of discussion.

 

• If you no longer wish to receive the Agenda and Recap Notes from our meeting, please let the Moderator know you want to be taken off the email list. Email “Unsubscribe BISG” to [email protected]