Parents of children with special needs can use all the support we can get, but it is often hard to find. I know for us it was nearly impossible since people with cystic fibrosis are discouraged from spending time together, therefore it is difficult for CFers and parents of CFers to meet and talk. We found a great deal of support on the internet and have benefited from it almost daily.
In person support groups have their advantages. They are personal and up close allowing you to really get to know people. However, getting to know people over the internet is easier than you think and there are plenty of advantages.
For one, online support groups offer a great amount of convenience. For parents of special needs children getting out of the house to get to the grocery store can prove a difficult task, so forget taking time for yourself and getting some support. The availability of online support allows you to talk to other parents from the comfort of your home without the worry of finding someone to watch your children.
Online support groups are also flexible. There is support available twenty-four hours a day. During any down time (like when the kids are finally asleep) you can turn on your computer and find someone to talk to, whether your hair is done or you’re fully dressed. You can post a question to a forum and by the next day have numerous responses to your question.
You can also meet people way outside of your geographic location. Sometimes, the best support doesn’t come from the lady around the corner from you. Just because someone has similar challenges to us, doesn’t mean he can support us in the way we need. The internet allows you to find people you can truly relate to, whether they are in the same town, same state or across the country.
If your child has a chronic condition and you don’t like to risk her or yourself through exposure to unnecessary germ-catching situations, the online support groups can be a blessing. You get the support you need without the risk of catching someone’s cold.
If you are a shy person and hate talking in front of groups, online support is a great option for you. You can feel free to be open and honest without the feeling of embarrassment. I for one, don’t like speaking in public and hate the idea of having all eyes on me. For me, online support is a great opportunity to truly get my feelings, fears and concerns out, without stumbling due to shyness.