In the theoretical part of my thesis, I described group social work, group leadership and group dynamics, and the definition of self-help. I focused on the women's support group and the self-help group Zmorem at the Family Centre Ormož. I was interested in how these groups work, how the members experience the support they receive from social workers and other members, and what changes they notice in their lives. I was also interested in the challenges and obstacles that the group leaders faced in setting up and running their groups, and what support and self-help groups can contribute to the mental health in a rural setting. My research is qualitative, empirical, and exploratory. I conducted 2 focus group interviews with a total of 11 members of the Women's Support Group and the Self-Help Group Zmorem. One focus group included six members of the Women's Support Group, while the other included five members of the Self-Help Group Zmorem. I also conducted 2 interviews with the leaders of these groups. I found that the participants are satisfied with the support they receive from the group leaders and other members, and they notice some significant changes in their lives. The research confirmed that continuous support and a safe environment are key to the success of the groups. It would be appropriate to introduce the Women's Support Group and the Self-Help Group Zmorem into the regular program of the Adult Education Center Ormož and the Municipality of Ormož as only in this way will it be possible to provide further support and help to the residents.
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