Although they are not for everyone, mutual support groups can be a big help. Here are some of the pluses: Others face similar problems. Members give as well as get. Members are empathetic and self-disclosing. Members share experiences, advice, encouragement. Members are good listeners. There is equality, with no leader, no hierarchy. There are no character interpretations. Psychological vulnerabilities are protected.

The group works toward specific problem solving, active coping, emotionally expressive talk, and tension reduction. Members give one another prescriptions for dealing with issues.  You can see why so many women want this kind of experience while they are dieting. Believe it or not, this very experience can help too when you’ve lost the weight and are working hard to maintain the loss.