4. Differences to Other Forms of Help

Self help groups arise from the commitment of persons who are affected by a problem or that of their relatives in a way that these persons themselves determine and for which they alone are responsible. The motivation for this stems from the desire to change something in their own situation and to compare their experience with that of people who have similar problems.

Members of self help groups communicate at the level of being equally affected and thus make it possible for each of them to understand the other authentically. It is not possible for professional helpers to understand authentically, let alone communicate this understanding, because these persons generally are.

Help from third parties (e.g. professional counselling, therapy) means accepting help. Self help always entails mutual give and take.

Self help initiatives constitute a substantial extension of professional aid in the supply of health and social services. They are especially useful as a counterbalance to psychosocial deficiencies.