“Seeing the positive outcomes ourselves, we decided to join the newly formed 'GROW - Better Together' meeting for Carers.”
“The welcoming and caring attitude, along with the guidance gained from discussions, we have already found great benefit and hopefully are better Carers as a result.”
Rose & Chris
“Prior to my sister's relapse I struggled with denial, guilt, resentment and apathy. As a result I felt powerless, uninformed and disconnected from my sister and family.”
“These days when visiting my sister our goal is just to explore and enjoy life. For me, 'GROW- Better Together' makes profound sense.”
Marisa
“GROW - Better Together”differs from many other support groups. Meetings are weekly and last for about two hours. Those attending work on the specific challenges they are facing, and the wisdom of the GROW Program is used to address those challenges. An acceptable practical task to deal with the challenge is offered. Members therefore have something definite to work on through the week and are able to report on their progress at the next meeting. This is the very effective and growthful pattern developed by GROW over its 51 years of operation.
The weekly meetings include an explanation of the Project for any new people and usually one member will share their Personal Story. An Educational and Skills Development section is determined by the needs of the group members, and this could include watching and discussing a DVD, listening to a guest speaker, or perhaps reading some relevant literature. Forward Planning by the group and a written Meeting Evaluation occur every week. Meetings are confidential and free, and are followed by refreshments.
Unlike a traditional GROW meeting, the 12 steps are not used directly as these were developed to meet the needs specifically of people dealing with a mental illness.
The Program was launched in February 2008. Groups currently meet in Ringwood in partnership with Eastern Access Community Health, in Caulfield South at the GROW Community Centre, and in Coburg at the Uniting Church Hall. A group will commence in Dandenong very soon , and further groups will follow in the Melbourne Metropolitan area and in some Regional Centres in response to the need.
We welcome invitations to give presentations of “GROW - Better Together” and/or GROW, and look forward to creating opportunities to collaborate with and to complement the work of other agencies in meeting the needs of those who care for someone troubled by a mental health issue.
If your agency is interested in a presentation, or you would like to find out more, please contact:
