InsaneJournal

237 | Avoidance Group* Therapy Mingle
(*Also known under the snappy alternative name "If I ignore my problems, maybe they'll go away" Group.)

[In the usually so quiet library where we lay our scene, things are a little less quiet and a little less library-like, given that today it's full of bots, a few tables with neat little trays full of assorted snacks, and - of course - therapy subjects in varying states of willingness.

The robots, true to form, don't bother anyone who doesn't try to leave. Those who do try will have their path brusquely cut off and their attention directed to a whiteboard at the far end of the room - it's mostly empty, with plenty of room for writing, except for one sentence in the middle of the board, written in red: "Admitting to one's problems opens doors." Is that an attempt at an inspirational message, or meant to be taken literally? We just don't know.

There's also a table just beneath the whiteboard with little stacks of cards with suggested discussion topics (with instructions to work in pairs or smaller groups, taking turns to answer the questions).]



• Share one of your ambitions. What are actions you have taken in order to fulfill it? Are there more things you could do? Give suggestions on more ways of working towards your goals.

• Share one of your fears. What are actions you have taken in order to stop it from coming through? Are there actions you have actively avoided taking? Does the group have any fears in common?

• Are there certain tasks, responsibilities or situations you often find yourself avoiding in everyday life? If yes, how do you get out of them? Is there an alternative approach? Give and compare examples, discuss reasons.

• Is there something currently worrying you? If so, what? If your fears were to be realised, what is the worst-case scenario for it? Is there a best-case scenario? Brainstorm possible ways of solving the situation.

• What is one difficult situation you have experienced recently? How did you deal with it?

• Share one achievement you feel proud of having accomplished.

[There are also a number of scenarios along the lines of "You have a work assignment due tomorrow, but a friend calls you inviting you to a night out. What do you do?" as well ask the questions that can be found scrolling down this site. Feel free to make up your own!]