Recovery Month is a time to celebrate recovery, spread the word of hope, and share resources and connections for those initiating and sustaining their journey. Today, we are proud to spotlight a group that we support closely: the Women’s Connection Support Group in Salisbury.
This group provides a safe, welcoming space where women can share experiences, build connections, and find encouragement from others walking similar paths. Below is a special Q&A with group leader Cathy Heald, who shares how the group got started, what attendees can expect, and the ways they foster all-inclusive meetings for women at every stage of recovery.
Join us in celebrating the incredible work happening in Salisbury to lift women up in recovery and beyond.
About the Group
What inspired you to start this group?
I felt there was a lack of opportunities for women to connect, share their stories, and support one another in ways that not only included recovery from substances, but “recovery” from all relatable struggles. I, myself, had difficulty finding my “tribe,” and when the space became available, Essex County Outreach was more than willing to welcome our Women’s Connection Support Group.
What makes this group different from other support groups?
All are welcome. We have women in recovery from substances, but we wanted women to feel supported by other women who may also be dealing with mental health challenges, co-dependency, grief, unhealthy relationships while at the same time striving for wellness, healing, and meaningful relationships. We offer speaker meetings, but also provide space to share gratitude, practice affirmations, and share our hopes and aspirations.
How do you create a safe and judgment-free environment for women attending?
We’ve created a welcoming space that is judgement-free and all struggles, hopes, and challenges are welcomed. It’s a space to share stories, receive support, and exchange numbers with the hope of building relationships both in and outside of the group space. Coffee and snacks are offered and an essential oil diffuser provides a calming scent that permeates the room.
What You Get at WCSG
What can someone expect when they attend for the first time?
Someone can expect to be warmly welcomed from the moment they courageously attend for the first time. Most days they are greeted by my overly friendly dog, Murph, who says hi to everyone coming through the door .
Are there specific activities, discussions, or practices you regularly incorporate?
We alternate between speaker meetings, gratitude shares, and practicing positive affirmations. If a topic unfolds that we feel offers an opportunity to explore it more in depth, we creatively find ways to provide supplemental materials to expand upon the subject. We strive to create a space where a variety of topics are welcomed and embraced. We let the women guide the direction of the group and what is discussed.
How do you balance the mix of women who may or may not be in recovery from addiction?
We highlight that we, as women, may be struggling with many different forms of recovery – perhaps from addiction, alcoholism, unhealthy relationships, mental health, grief, etc. But we share a common bond. We can be present for others who struggle with self-worth and find the compassion to be present for those seeking to be heard, accepted, and embraced. In connection, we find strength in ourselves and in our relationships.
Growth and Impact at WCSG
What kinds of transformations or “aha moments” have you seen participants experience?
Participants have shared they feel supported by other women and safe to be vulnerable.
How does this group help women build empowerment and healthy boundaries?
By sharing stories, we realize we are not alone, and I truly believe empowerment comes from a sense of true belonging.
What do you hope each woman takes away from attending?
They feel heard, welcomed, supported, and missed when their seat is empty.
Looking Ahead
Do you have any upcoming plans, topics, or themes you’re excited about?
We are open to offering activities that unfold a participant’s creativity and welcome suggestions for topics of interest. We want to balance challenging topics with opportunities to laugh, explore health and wellness, and build connections.
How can someone get involved if they’ve never attended before?
They can reach out to Heather or me via phone or email. My email is cghlin35@yahoo.com, and my contact number is 603-475-6451.