Among the mental-health support group members, those who completed the group identity reinforcement task reported stronger group identification, higher self-efficacy and a greater sense of well-being. Paradoxically, those who identified strongly with their peer support group had more prejudiced views about other people living with the same challenges.
The results suggest that belonging to a group isn’t enough. It is the importance attached to the group that unlocks positive effects on behaviours and attitudes.
Strong group identification not only made members feel more capable of managing symptoms but also enriched other areas of their lives. “These participants felt more engaged and reported a greater sense of meaning in their lives,” said Siqueira.
The benefits of group identification weren’t limited to mental-health groups. Members of hobby or sport communities also reaped rewards.
Breaking down barriers
For people with mental-health struggles—who may already find social interaction difficult—the emotional and psychological bond with an online community can be especially valuable. Since online support groups have no geographic or financial barriers, they are available outside the hours of health-care services, in the comfort and safety of one's home.
For better or worse, social media are here to stay, and health-care professionals need to take them into account, said Cárdenas. The question is: “How can we maximize the benefits and minimize the harms?” she added.
With more people turning to AI chatbots for emotional support, online groups take on even greater importance, she concluded. “AI tends to isolate us. It doesn't teach us social skills. But mental health is very social: individuals don't live in a vacuum; they need to connect with others."
