3 Reasons Therapists Recommend Parent Support Groups

“Parent support groups offer a non-judgemental space to express feelings, share burdens, and gain practical advice,” explains one Charlie Health expert.

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Parenting has always had its challenges, but modern-day parents face some unique stressors. So much so, in fact, that the U.S. Surgeon General issued a 2024 advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents. To start, the current youth mental health crisis has nearly 75% of parents worried that their child will struggle with anxiety or depression. On top of that, parents and caregivers are also grappling with busy schedules, social isolation, and their own emotions and well-being. 

That’s where parent support groups can help. Whether it’s in-person or online, support groups offer parents a safe space to share their experiences, swap advice, and offer emotional support during difficult moments. Below, we review the benefits of parent support groups, how to find one, and how they differ from group therapy sessions. 

Three benefits of parent support groups

Have you ever heard the phrase it takes a village? As a parent or caregiver, those words may have taken on a whole new meaning. Whether you’re a first-time parent caring for a newborn or learning what life is like with a teenager in the house, most parents appreciate a bit of support as they navigate each new phase of parenthood — even seasoned parents with multiple children.

“By connecting with others who share similar experiences, parents gain a sense of validation and understanding, which can alleviate emotional strain,” says Austin Chason, a Charlie Health Group Facilitator. “These groups offer a non-judgemental space to express feelings, share burdens, and gain practical advice, all of which contribute to reduced stress.” If you’re on the fence about joining a parenting group, here are three leading benefits to consider. 

1. Practical advice and parenting tips 

In today’s society, there’s no shortage of parenting advice. But with so many parenting books and influencers to choose from, how do you know what will work for your child? Parent support groups are a great place to connect with like-minded individuals who can offer their thoughts on topics like tantrums, bullying at school, and social media habits. They’re also a good place to learn about local therapists, recreational activities, and other community resources. 

2. Emotional support

According to the American Psychological Association, parents with children ages 18 and younger are more likely to report high levels of stress compared with the rest of the population. If you’re struggling with stress or other overwhelming emotions, consider joining a support group to connect with other parents who share similar concerns. Having access to a support network has been shown to help reduce stress and increase resilience. 

3. Community and companionship 

Being a parent can be isolating. You may be surrounded by people but feel like no one understands what you’re going through. Parenting groups are a great way to meet other adults and families who are on a similar journey. Whether it’s swapping funny parenting memes, playdates at the park, or grabbing dinner on a Friday night, support groups can help you grow meaningful friendships. 

How to find a parent support group

If you’re looking to connect with a community of parents, start by asking friends, neighbors, and coworkers for referrals. You can also reach out to your library, community center, pediatrician, or therapist for suggestions.

Other parent support resources include:

• National Parent Helpline: 1-855-427-2736
• Parents Helping Parents: 1-800-632-8188
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-703-524-7600

There are several factors to consider when choosing a support group, including format, size and structure, and specific needs. For starters, it’s worth considering if you prefer an in-person or online support group and if you’re looking for a smaller, more structured group, or a larger, more informal community. Some parents may also prefer specialized parenting groups, such as ones that focus on children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use issues, or other mental health issues. 

Support groups vs. therapy sessions 

Support groups are a wonderful resource to help parents learn and grow, but if parenting is taking a toll on your mental health, you may want to consider additional support. In some cases, the stress of parenting can contribute to mental health concerns like burnout and postpartum depression. 

“While group therapy and parent support groups share some similarities, they serve different purposes,” explains Chason. “The primary purpose [of parent support groups] is to foster connection, understanding, and mutual support. Group therapy is typically led by a mental health professional and focuses on therapeutic goals, such as addressing emotional challenges or behavioral patterns.”

If you decide to explore talk therapy, one of the techniques your therapist may use is called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you align your thoughts and behaviors with your mental health goals. CBT is considered an effective resource for helping parents manage stress, challenge negative thought patterns, and feel more confident in their parenting abilities. 

Navigating parenthood with Charlie Health

If you’re looking for parenting support or need help managing your stress and anxiety, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s personalized virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers mental health treatment for teens, young adults, and families dealing with various complex mental health challenges, including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs).

Our team of expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions to help you feel confident in your parenting abilities and the health of your family. Fill out the short form below to get started today.