What is Self-Help (i.e. Selbsthilfe)? Self-help or mutual support is a process wherein people who share common expieriences, situations, problems or (chronical) diseases can offer each other a unique perspective that is not available from those who have not shared these experiences. Self-help groups (Selbsthilfegruppen) are run for group members. Professionals may participate in the self-help process at the request and sanction of the group and remain in an ancillary or consultant role. Activties focus on social/health support through discussion and sharing of information and experiences but may extend to other activities and ways of interacting. Self-help groups are open to people who share a common concern. Self-help groups meet face to face on a regular basis, are voluntary and open to new members. There is no charge to participate in a self-help group, although a nominal donation to cover expenses is sometimes requested, but not required. Benefits of Self-Help It empowers people It costs less than other "helping" services It increases social supports Research documents a longer life span for self helpers It has a unique problem solving approach Increased self-esteem often results from belonging to a group Increased motivation comes from group intervention A self-help group helps the family cope It helps to relieve anxiety of the unkown through learning It is a good source of information Selbsthilfe-Treffpunkt Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg... is a local service center for self-help groups in Berlin and a drop-in center for people who are interested in self-help or other forms of help/support concerning social or health problems. We offer rooms for self-help groups in Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg We advice you about self-help, self-help groups and other forms of help/support in Berlin We instruct/guide self-help groups in the beginning and if support is requested We support self-help groups with e.g camcorder, overheadprojector, flipcharts, pc etc. We arrange lectures about health- and social-themes International links: "NAKOS gelbe Adressen"