Is it time to start moving beyond the individual as part of our approach to mental health treatment? Are we not a social species who need belonging, connection, and intimacy just as much, if not more than self-regulation?

The answer is absolutely! Humans are inherently social beings, and our mental health is deeply influenced by our relationships and social interactions. Traditional individual therapy focuses on self-regulation and personal insight, which are important components of mental health. But does this really help us navigate the complex and dynamic aspects of being with others in our communities? Focusing simply on the individual can mean we ignore the profound impact of social connections and our need for belonging and intimacy. Incorporating group therapy into mental health treatment can address these social needs more effectively.

The Importance of Belonging, Connection, and Intimacy

Irrespective of how efficient and effective we are as individuals; we must re-learn to be in groups for several reasons:

1. Belonging: A sense of belonging is crucial for wellbeing. Whether that is in our friendships, families, communities or workplace, we need to feel like we are welcome and important. Feeling accepted and valued by others reduces feelings of isolation, loneliness, and enhances self-esteem. It gives us meaning and purpose which we can then use to grow and develop as people.

2. Connection: Human connections are vital for emotional support. There is nothing more reassuring knowing that you have a tribe to call upon in times of need. And that doesn’t just mean times when we are sad, scared, frustrated or lonely. Having a tribe to call upon to help celebrate, rejoice, play and laugh with is equally important as we ride through the ups and downs of life. Positive interactions with others can really buffer stress and contribute to resilience.

3. Intimacy: Intimate relationships, where we feel safe to express who we really are is essential for emotional health. In order to be authentic and vulnerable, we need closeness with others who can hold and see us in all of our different states of being. Being able to be intimate with others, and support others to be intimate with us, is deeply rewarding and a real honor.

Process Group Therapy: Supporting Us in the Here-and-Now

So how do we start exploring our relational experiences? Process Group Therapy is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes the interactions between group members in the present moment. This type of therapy helps clients engage in authentic, meaningful exchanges, which can promote both individual and collective growth. Here are some key benefits of process group therapy:

1. Immediate Feedback: Clients receive real-time feedback from peers and the therapist, which can lead to immediate insights and opportunities for behavior change. This dynamic interaction helps individuals see how their behavior affects others and how they are perceived in social contexts.

2. Relational Skills Development: Group therapy provides a safe space to practice and develop essential social skills, such as empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution. These skills are crucial for building and maintaining healthy relationships outside the therapy setting.

3. Shared Experience: Members often find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their struggles. Sharing experiences with others who face similar challenges can reduce stigma and foster a sense of solidarity and mutual support.

4. Enhanced Self-Awareness: Interacting with diverse group members exposes clients to different perspectives, enhancing their self-awareness and understanding of their own behaviors and emotions.

5. Supportive Environment: The group provides a supportive environment where members can take risks and explore new ways of relating to others. This supportive network can be a powerful source of encouragement and validation.

Moving Forward: Integrating Group Therapy into Mental Health Treatment

Incorporating group therapy into mental health treatment is a step in the direction of recognizing the importance of social factors in psychological wellbeing. It complements individual therapy by addressing the need for connection and belonging, providing a more holistic approach to mental health care.

By leveraging the power of group dynamics, therapists can help clients develop healthier relationships, improve social skills, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves in relation to others. This integrative approach can lead to more sustainable and comprehensive mental health outcomes, acknowledging that while self-regulation is essential, the need for social connection is equally paramount.

In conclusion, as we continue to evolve our mental health treatment strategies, it is crucial to move beyond the individual focus and embrace approaches that foster belonging, connection, and intimacy. Process group therapy offers a valuable platform for clients to grow both individually and collectively, aligning with our fundamental nature as social beings.

Sarah x