The self-help movement evolved to fill a gap by providing answers to groups whose unique needs were unmet by the medical professions, social and human service organizations, family units, religious institutions, and others. Self-help is a social resource that individuals in need use so they do not have to confront their problems in isolation (Katz, 1998).
The strength of the self-help movement is its spirit or ethos which emphasizes self-determination and the arming of individuals with tools useful in facing a shared problem. People who have the same problem know a great deal about it from the “inside” and can share a special understanding. Individuals become competent in dealing with the issues through experience; there is an emphasis on experiential learning (Reissman & Carroll, 1995). Individuals who utilize self-help techniques demonstrate a sense of optimism about their ability to change and recognize that they can impact their quality of life by making changes.
Polio survivors can participate in self-help activities by attending support group meetings, in person or on the Internet (see Support Groups), and post-polio conferences; by reading factual and well-balanced newsletters, books, and websites. The self-help movement is grounded in a cycle of personal participation: of needing assistance, seeking information, accepting guidance, responding to recommendations, and then assisting others.
While the value of self-help and the sense of community it provides is undeniable, it is a complement to – not a substitute for – sound ethical, medical, and psychological assistance.
References
Katz, A. (1998). Foreword. In B.J. White & E.J. Madara (Eds.), The Self-help sourcebook: Your guide to community and online support groups (p. 5). Denville, NJ: Northwest Covenant Medical Center.
Reissman, F., & Carroll. D. (1995). Redefining self-help: Policy and practice. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass Publishers.