Members of our online support groups communicate via e-mail messages.
You have a choice as to how they would like to participate. You may choose to receive each message from the group’s members. Or, you can receive a digest format; you’ll receive one large message that contains all the messages sent throughout the day. We use a listserv, meaning members send an e-mail message to one address; the message is then distributed to all members of the group. On some days, the group may send 50 e-mail messages. On other days, members may only receive five.
Our message also will be archived on our website. To access the archives, please visit your group’s page.
You can change how you would like to receive messages from the group at any time. Simply visit your group’s page and change whether or not you’ve selected to receive the digest form.
In order to ensure participation in our groups is positive for all members, we’ve developed the following guidelines:
1. No flaming (sending insulting or demeaning or derogatory messages about other members and/or other members’ messages). On your really stressful days, you may find yourself reacting very strongly to certain messages. On those days, vent about the frustrations of your day, but choose to avoid responding to any messages that seem to really tick you off. And, if members send messages that regularly tick you off, then send a message to Denise; she’ll gladly help to resolve the situation.
2. If you choose to receive e-mail messages, consider where you want to receive them. For instance, you may not want to receive so many personal messages at your work e-mail address. You can create a free e-mail account at portals such as Yahoo! and Google and use that account for your support group messages.
3. Our groups are not moderated. This is your group. It’s an important sanctuary for you. We know you’ll take care of it.
4. Share the experience–and it’s a great one! It’s wonderful to find a group of online friends who sympathize and comfort during an unbelievably challenging experience. With that in mind, be sure everyone has an opportunity to participate by sharing the group (i.e., avoid dominating the group) and welcoming and embracing others’ participation. If you haven’t already done so, please read The Four Agreements.
5. If you are sending a message to the group that is not necessarily caregiving-related, you can preface your message with this code “DRIB”: Don’t Read If Busy. DRIB alerts other members that your message is somewhat off-topic and helps members quickly peruse messages they can delete when checking their messages on those really busy (and particularly stressful) days.
6. If you find yourself in a discussion with just one other member of the group, please feel free to continue your discussion privately. You can do so by e-mailing the other member’s e-mail address, rather than the group’s e-mail address.
7. In respect of everyone’s belief system, please refrain from posts and discussions relating to politics and religion. (Religious posts are obviously welcome in the support group for Christians (coming soon) in a caregiving role.)
8. Feel free to post your specific needs. Once the group understands what you need, they are often able to provide it.
9. We ask that all members refrain from forwarding any chain messages, including virus warnings (typically hoaxes) and requests to support an issue or petition to the groups.
10. If you have any questions or problems, please feel free to e-mail Denise.
