Support groups bring together people with similar problems. As a group, people can give each other emotional and moral support, as well as share practical information. The groups are as different as the people who are in them, but choosing a support group that's right for you depends on several factors. In general, support groups fall into two main categories. There are ones led by a professional moderator, such as nurse, social worker, or psychologist. And, there are ones led by group members, which are often called peer or self-help groups. If you decide to join a support group, what kind you choose might depend on what's available in your area, whether you prefer to stay at home, or if you're able to travel. To find a support group: Most support groups are free, collect voluntary donations, or charge only reasonable membership fees to cover expenses. Each type of support group has its own advantages and disadvantages. You might prefer a structured group with a moderator or you might feel more comfortable meeting with a small group of people casually. If you're uncomfortable about sharing personal information with a group of people you don't know, see if you can go to one meeting and just listen, rather than talk. If you're considering message boards on the Internet, be careful. You might like being anonymous, but the trade-off might be that you don't know who else is online with you and you might not know if you can believe everything you read. Look for groups associated with reliable organizations or ones hosted by an expert. If you decide to take part in a group (in person or online), try it out a few times. If you don't find it useful or feel uncomfortable, you don't have to continue. You might have to experiment with different kinds of support groups before you find a group that fits you. Avoid any group that promises a cure or suggests that support groups can take the place of medical treatment.