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Support Groups

Group resources can be another helpful source of support. Typically, people believe support groups to involve commiseration and focused on emotions. Although this can be true to a degree, many groups are also focused on learning from the experience of others that are in similar situations as you. Groups can also provide the opportunity to hear important information from others about their strategies, problem-solving, resources, and dealing with other life stressors.  For example, topics may include:

  • Understanding health insurance
  • Financial strain and available resources
  • Community resources for medical equipment or housing needs
  • Navigating social situations
  • Disclosure of diagnosis (e.g., at work/school, or with relationships)
  • ADA accommodations 
  • Impact on family or caregivers



Please note: these are external links with resources managed by other healthcare agencies. It is recommended to call the agency and confirm group information prior to attendance.

Northwestern Medicine

Northwestern Medicine has many local groups services across the Chicagoland area as related to medical conditions (e.g., stroke, brain injury, amputee, cancer), mental health, and caregiver resources. This website will provide updated listings across their many facilities, and your search can be narrowed by city.

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 Click the link to view their local support group resources 

Brain Injury Association of Illinois

The Brain Injury Association of Illinois (BIA of IL) is part of the network of brain injury associations across the United States, and is an affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA). This statewide non-profit organization serves to provide an information & resource call center, education, advocacy, programs and services to individuals who have sustained a brain injury (traumatic and acquired), family members/caregivers, rehabilitation professionals, and the community at large. This includes providing supportive group resources for people with acquired brain injury and their families, and have several local groups in Chicago and the suburbs.

Learn More

Click the link to view their local support group resources

Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital

Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital has several support group services focused for individuals with medical conditions, including stroke, amputee, ALS, spinal cord injury, brain injury, and Parkinson's.

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Click the link to view their local support group resources

Additionally, Marianjoy offers several community wellness classes which focus on health and fitness.

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Click the link to view their local group health resources

Alcoholics Anonymous

The Chicago Area Service Office (CASO) serves the local Chicago community and has an extensive offerings of local daily meetings.

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 Click the link to view their local support group resources 

Survivors of Domestic Violence

Survivors of Domestic Violence Support Group (SDVSG) is for adult women who have experienced intimate partner violence through verbal, psychological, physical, or financial abuse. Specific group information is provided over the phone to protect privacy. 

Learn More

 Click the link to view their local support group resources