18. As sharing consists of personal details, are they treated confidential?

Confidentiality is definitely maintained. Members may choose to share their experiences, their own successful efforts using the Recovery method. Recovery support group meetings provide a safe place for members to express their feelings, what upsets or frightens them. Yet there is no compulsion to share, because you may attend the meetings and not share anything until you feel safe and ready. This helps many who find it difficult to open out quickly. Supportive atmosphere here is created because there is no judgment passed. Plus, what is discussed remains within the group.

The facilitator will help you as you give your first example about something that upset you. You will also learn by listening to others as they share their experience. It is quite normal initially to be nervous about participating in the group. As you realize that there is no criticism or judging, you will feel comfortable to share without hesitation.

When one has learned a couple of simple Recovery tools from either listening to others at the meetings or reading Recovery books, one will feel confident to do this. As part of a disciplined group one is expected to wait for ones turn to comment, as one does for sharing ones experience.