Being diagnosed with an illness, watching a loved one suffer from addiction and suffering from postpartum depression can make you feel extremely lonely. Having support during difficult times such as these is incredibly important in both physical healing and mental well-being. When it comes to wellness education and support groups, community partners Hancock Wellness Centers and Hancock Regional Hospital have your back.

Although COVID changed the way we experience support by introducing us fully to the virtual platform, offerings still abound at both the hospital and Hancock Wellness Centers. The goal is to create a community where education is an important step for anyone dealing with a life-changing problem. Below are just some of the offerings you’ll find at both exceptional facilities.

You’re a parent … now what?

Whether your little one is still enjoying life inside the womb or you have a rambunctious preschooler, you can turn to community for both support and encouragement. The Bump Club and breastfeeding classes are still going strong through the hospital, with the latter meeting virtually. Hancock Regional’s Car Seat program is here to support you in getting your little bundle of joy home safely postpartum. Safe Sleep Classes and Positive Parenting Classes for infants, toddlers and preschoolers are another way to connect with other families who may be experiencing the overwhelm of parenting and all it takes to raise a tiny human being. You can also become more familiar with the childbirth process, breastfeeding, newborn care and infant CPR through the Hancock Wellness Centers educational courses.

If you are grieving a loss…

If you are grieving the loss of a loved one, you’re experiencing something incredibly painful. Humans weren’t meant to grieve alone; we need a community to hold us safely while we process difficult emotions. Through a free drop-in group, Hancock Regional Hospital Chaplain Katherine Murray helps attendees feel comfortable traveling the road of grief together, with tenderness and hope. The support group meets every Friday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Hancock Wellness Center in Greenfield.

What should you do after a diagnosis?

Being met with a life-changing diagnosis can be devastating for you, family, friends and even caregivers. Alzheimer’s and Dementia Friends groups can take the sting out of the unknown that comes with a diagnosis requiring an understanding of memory care. Hancock Regional’s support group for cancer is currently meeting virtually in order to protect the immune-compromised. You can still find a great depth of support, even using a virtual platform, when you meet with others who are going through the same experience.

If you’ve received a diagnosis like Parkinson’s, you may be searching for a group of people who can understand your symptoms as well as your worries and concerns. Hancock Health runs a supportive self-help group for such patients, meeting on the second Monday of each month from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hancock Wellness Centers, Greenfield. Multiple sclerosis is another disease with unique demands, and patients benefit greatly from seeking support of those who are experiencing the same constellation of symptoms. Meeting on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Greenfield’s Hancock Wellness Center, this group is helpful for spouses, families and caregivers of those suffering from MS as well.

Addiction recovery and family support groups

Whether you or someone you love is just beginning their road to recovery or they’ve been clean for years, it’s helpful to meet with others who know the ropes. CRAFT, a program for loved ones of addicts, Smart Recovery and Smart Recovery for Friends and Family are just some of the offerings that can make a difference in the lives of those who have struggled with addiction.

It’s important to acknowledge our need for community support during times of trouble. Hancock Regional Hospital and Hancock Wellness Centers are intent upon offering classes and groups that meet the needs of a wide range of people within our community. You can find a full list of support groups and educational wellness classes by visiting the websites of the hospital and wellness centers. Community support is vital. Reach out and get the help you need to thrive.