Self Help Recovery Groups

Project Report | Jun 10, 2026
Safe Spaces creating New Hope

By Jonas Graf | Communication and Fundraising Assistant

People struggling with addiction often face stigma, shame, and prejudice. Many addiction journeys are linked to painful life experiences such as the loss of a loved one, unemployment, illness, family conflict, or other sudden changes that can leave people overwhelmed and alone.

This is why self-help groups are so important.

Blue Cross Botswana recently shared a simple but powerful message:

“We listen, we don’t judge.”

Their self-help groups meet regularly and their meetings provide a safe and welcoming space where people affected by addiction can share their stories, receive encouragement, and find support from others who understand their situation.

For many participants, joining a self-help group is an important step toward recovery. It helps them realise that they are not alone, that their experiences matter, and that change is possible. Safe spaces in that way create new hope through community-based recovery, personal connection, and social belonging.

The photos from recent activities show this spirit: people gathered in circles, outdoors and in community spaces, creating room for conversation, trust, and mutual encouragement.

Thank You for Making This Work Possible: Your support helps International Blue Cross and local partners such as Blue Cross Botswana continue this important work. It enables people affected by addiction to find safe spaces, dignity, and renewed hope.

Together, we can help people move from isolation to belonging!

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Feb 10, 2026
Ghana Project Developments

By Anne Babb | General Secretary

Sep 11, 2025
Nepal Self Help Groups Change Lives of Families

By /Users/annebabb/Desktop/0530fcb7-5853-4e3Anne Babb | General Secretary

Women at community event

From May to August 2025, Naya Suruwat Nepal continued its commitment to supporting individuals and communities affected by alcohol and drug abuse. The organisation combines counselling, awareness raising, and family engagement to encourage people to attend peer support groups and to sustain behaviour change.

Peer Support- Self Help Groups
Naya Suruwat Nepal operated peer group sessions twice a week, every Wednesday and Saturday, over an 18-week period. Using a 12-step counselling approach, one woman and ten men participated regularly. The groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, building resilience, and supporting recovery journeys. The organisation encourages more people to attend, as regular participation is a powerful step toward long-term change.

Community Awareness Programs
Two major awareness events were conducted in Bagnaskali rural municipality:

On 15 June 2025, in Ward No. 1 (Ghorbanda), 28 men and several community leaders took part in an awareness session on alcohol and drug abuse.
On 28 June 2025, on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse, a similar event was held in Ward No. 6 (Yamgaha–Tokse), gathering 34 men together with local leaders.

By engaging community leaders and local residents, these programs not only raised awareness of the harms of substance use but also encouraged individuals to take the next step and join peer support activities.

Family and Client Follow-Up
Naya Suruwat Nepal emphasises that recovery is most effective when families and communities are actively involved. Regular home visits and phone calls were conducted, and family members were counselled alongside clients. This inclusive approach builds stronger support systems at the household and community level, making it easier for clients to remain on their recovery path.

Through these combined activities, Naya Suruwat Nepal reached individuals directly struggling with addiction while also mobilising families and communities to walk alongside them. The organisation thanks its donors for making it possible to bring hope, healing, and resilience to people’s lives.

Community event for self help group promotion

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