SELF - HELP Self - help generally refers to groups or meetings that: involve people who have similar needs; are facilitated by a consumer, survivor, or other layperson; assist people to deal with a «life -
disrupting» event, such as a death, abuse, serious accident, addiction, or diagnosis of a physical, emotional, or mental disability, for oneself or a
relative; are operated
on an informal, free - of - charge, and nonprofit
basis; provide support and education; and are voluntary, anonymous, and confidential.