Get to know The Cloud (Loneliness Support Group).

Basic Information

• Fees Type: Free
• City: Online Only
• Facilitated By: A Mental Health Professional
• Languages: English
• Meets: Occasionally, Once A Month (No Fixed Schedule)
• Notes: Nominal monthly fee of Rs. 49/- for attending either Tues or Sat. Rs. 99/- for attending both days.
• Navigating Grief

What is the group about?

"With an alarming rise of COVID-19 cases, yet again, there is panic, fear and anxiety all around. At our organization as well, we've had people personally affected by COVID-19, and relying on each other for emotional support has made us realize the value of restarting our support-group for those who want access to the same opportunity of feeling connected and supported through infection, symptoms, and recovery, for either themselves or their …"

What is your founding story?

"This group came into being in 2019, and it originally emerged as hosting two different support-groups for * People struggling with anxiety, and * People struggling with loss, grief and depression. This was pre-COVID and we met twice a month. With COVID-19, we ran a support-group last year with flexible timings - sometimes four days a week - as there was a lot of distress and people needed constant help. This year, with so many people …"

Who is your group for?

"Everyone. It can be a great source of relief for healthcare workers and people on the frontline. We cannot begin to imagine what they go through in these difficult times. Segments like interactive games are a great way to simply have fun and feel good. We can exercise our minds and practice focusing on the here and now rather than other negative thoughts. Join us with your family and enjoy the family time as well! Interacting with other members …"

How does one sign up? What’s the coordination process like?

"They get a link to the registration form. Once they fill the form, within 12-24 hours, a member of our team gets in touch with them and explains the entire process."

Walk us through the average format of your group session.

"We have an icebreaker and an introductory activity in the case of open groups where the facilitator establishes group-rules, and briefs members of the theme of the session. We invite people to share what they are going through. The format is fluid, supported by some activities and questions in a semi-structured fashion. We do ensure we close with some mindfulness or meditation technique."

What do you hope for participants in your group to take back with them after a session?

"To help them feel more hopeful, see the silver lining, and also to acknowledge the importance of taking care of their mental health."