Relationships

Unique Online Support Groups You Might Not Know About

Online communities can be a lifeline when you're feeling isolated. For many of us living with mental health challenges, connecting online can serve as a first step toward meaningful engagement—whether it’s online or eventually in person.

The support groups listed below are mostly led by peers—people like you and me who have lived experience with mental health challenges. They’ve created spaces where like-minded individuals can come together to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from one another. Whether you’re looking for practical coping tips or just a place to feel seen and understood, there’s something here for everyone.

  1. Wildflower Alliance
    Known as a leader in the peer support movement, Wildflower Alliance offers diverse groups like Grief Support and Spiritual Exploration. Their compassionate approach creates a welcoming space to process and heal.
  2. The Dinner Party

A community for people in their 20s to 40s who are navigating grief after the loss of a loved one.  These virtual “dinner parties” are centered around open, honest conversations about grief, and offer a supportive space to process feelings in the company of others who have experienced loss.

  1. Cope Coach Program by Let’s Cope

Provides personalized, one-on-one coaching to help you manage stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm along with live groups. It’s a gentle, ongoing source of extra support for those who want flexible and accessible help along with group support.

  1. StrongerU Wellness
    StrongerU focuses on peer-led support programming, offering everything from one-on-one support to group sessions. This is a great option if you’re looking for flexible, personalized connection.
  2. Livewell
    These free, online support groups are especially helpful for individuals navigating depression recovery. Livewell emphasizes shared experiences and mutual encouragement.
  3. Grouport
    For a mix of professional guidance and group connection, Grouport offers online support groups led by licensed mental health providers. They cater to a variety of mental health conditions, giving you access to expert insight within a group setting.
  4. The Mighty
    This community features mental health forums, blogs, and resources. It’s a low-pressure way to connect with others who share similar experiences, and you can contribute at your own pace.
  5. Wisdo

An online platform that connects you with peer mentors and supportive communities based on your specific life challenges. Wisdo has a goal-oriented focus: it helps you identify your challenges and then matches you with mentors or groups who have successfully navigated those same challenges.

  1. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
    NAMI is a trusted organization that offers support groups for individuals living with mental health challenges, as well as for family and friends. Their offerings include online and in-person options nationwide.
  2. Now Matters Now
    Specializing in peer-led support groups with a focus on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), this platform is ideal if you’re looking for practical coping skills alongside a supportive community.

Why Try Online Support Groups?

Support groups can be a powerful way to feel less alone and tap into the collective wisdom of others navigating similar challenges. Whether you’re diving right into a group conversation or simply listening in with your camera off, these spaces can provide encouragement, validation, and even new strategies for thriving in daily life from people who have similar experiences.

Don’t forget to meet yourself where you are. Consider starting small—explore one or two groups that resonate with you and see how it feels. Connection is a journey, and it begins with a single step.