A self-help group is a gathering of people who share a common life situation, challenge, or health issue and come together to provide mutual support, share experiences, and help each other cope and grow. These groups are typically peer-led, meaning members with firsthand experience facilitate meetings rather than professionals, although some groups may have occasional professional involvement

. Self-help groups operate in a non-judgmental, safe environment where members can openly share their stories, learn coping strategies, and find a sense of belonging. They vary widely in structure-from informal gatherings to more organized groups with committees and scheduled events-and can meet in person or online

. The purpose of self-help groups is to offer emotional support, practical help, and empowerment through shared understanding, often focusing on issues like mental health, addiction recovery, chronic illness, grief, caregiving, and more. Members contribute as much as they wish, and participation is usually voluntary and low-cost or free

. In summary, self-help groups are peer-based communities that foster personal growth and healing by enabling individuals facing similar challenges to support one another through shared experience and mutual aid

. Additional context: In some contexts, especially in development or poverty alleviation (e.g., rural areas), self-help groups may also focus on economic empowerment by pooling savings, providing loans, and building social capital among members with similar socioeconomic backgrounds