Support groups for carers and supporters of people with ME/CFS and long COVID, offer safe, understanding spaces to share experiences, gain emotional support and access practical strategies. Our aim is to reduce isolation, build resilience, and empower caregivers through community, connection and shared strength in navigating these challenging conditions.
How Our Groups Work
- Group Size: Up to 12 participants
- Facilitators: Each group is hosted by a trained Emerge Australia facilitator
- Session Format: 5 virtual sessions, held every two weeks
- Ongoing Support: After the initial sessions, your group can continue meeting as part of our Volunteer Peer Support Community to stay connected
We provide two dedicated spaces on Microsoft Teams for your group:
- A private space for written communication and updates
- Live session links for each virtual session (sessions are not recorded)
Volunteer Peer Support: After the professionally facilitated sessions, groups can transition into our Volunteer Community Champions pilot program. This initiative trains group members to volunteer as peer moderators, supporting the continuation of your group. More information will be shared during the sessions.
What You’ll Need to Join
- A computer, tablet, or phone that can download and run Microsoft Teams
- A stable internet connection
Please Note:
Your username for Microsoft Teams will be the start of your email address. For example, if your email is jo.smith@emerge.org.au, your username will be jo.smith. Some participants choose to create a new email address for added privacy.
Supporting & Strength
Supporting and Strength is a dedicated support group for those who care for adults living with ME/CFS and long COVID.
Support and Strength Virtual Support Group will start at 1 pm AEDT on the following Tuesdays:
- October 7th and 21st
- November 4th and 18th
- December 2nd
(PLEASE NOTE: the 4th of Nov is a public holiday in VIC, but groups will still run).
Parent Connection
Parent Connection is a support group specifically for carers of school-aged children living with ME/CFS and long COVID.
Parent Connection Virtual Support Group will start at 1 pm AEDT on the following Wednesdays:
- October 8th and 22nd
- November 5th and 19th
- December 3rd
Compassionate Support
Compassionate Support is a supportive community designed for individuals who care for or support a person living with ME/CFS and long COVID.
Compassionate Support Virtual Support Group will start at 1 pm AEDT on the following Thursdays:
- October 9th and 23rd
- November 6th and 20th
- December 4th