What we’re about
Friends of Charles S. (FOCS) is a 12-step, Non-addiction based, peer support group. Many of the principles are Christian based, but this is for anyone (religious or no) who has suffered with depression & anxiety. Individuals who share like struggles find mutual support & reassurance in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment where shame (commonly associated with these disorders) is demoted and emotional wellness is promoted.
Alcoholics anonymous was the first 12 step support group. Bill Willson (1895-1971) was its cofounder. AA sometimes uses the phrase, “friends of Bill W.” to maintain the anonymity of its members. Following Bill’s fourth hospitalization for alcohol abuse, he had a spiritual awakening and refrained from drinking again. He committed his life to helping other alcoholics and developed the 12 steps of AA.
Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892) is considered one of the most influential and revered pastors of the millennium. He also suffered with debilitating anxiety and depression. He said, “I pity even a dog who has suffered what I have” and referred to himself as a “prisoner” saying he “wept without knowing why”. Spurgeons mental health challenges gave him empathy for his congregants. He was quite transparent about his emotional struggles. No doubt this is one of the reasons his congregants referred to him as “the peoples preacher”. He used the insights from his sufferings to help others. He challenged negative mental illness stereotyping, and encouraged nonjudgmental attitudes towards those with mental illness.
F O C S- what it is:
A group that welcomes anyone, 18 and above, seeking support for anxiety and depression.
A gathering of people with similar experiences in a non-judgmental meeting place
A group where we experience mutual support as we learn to cope with anxiety and depression
A group where Ideas of shame and guilt associated with mental illness our dispelled.
A Confidential “container”… What is shared in the group meeting, stays in the group meeting
A group that welcomes anyone seeking support for anxiety and depression (age 18 & above)
A group that exists through the contributions of members and anyone else in support of its mission.
F O C S- What it is not:
Not a psychotherapy group, although likely therapeutic in nature.
Not a complete treatment program, but rather a supplement to an individual therapeutic journey.
Not a group where one will receive a diagnosis or where medical assistance is given.
Not a group where participants are provided with letters of certification or referred to other agencies for assistance.
Not a community where we presume to have solutions for or attempt to “fix” other attendees.
Not a group affiliated with any church group (although we do rent space at a church building) or other organization.
Mission Statement: To alleviate suffering associated with anxiety and depression through a fellowship of mutual respect and support where mental wellness is promoted, and shame & stigmas associated with mental illness are demoted.
