At Perry Wellness Center, we conduct regular group discussions on a variety of topic. This past Monday -- the first sunny day after a rainy weekend -- the group topic focused on dealing with disappointment. We thought we’d give our readers an inside view of how a facilitator leads such groups.

This discussion started off with the simple question: “What is disappointment?” It was followed by such questions as: “Why is disappointment so painful?”  Each question prompted group discussion and facilitator comments. Team leader and staff member Allison Goolsby led intense discussion on the subject, and the group turned to ways they could lessen the impact of disappointment in their daily lives.

Takeaways from the discussion included:

• Keep your expectations realistic.
• Acknowledge feelings.
• Surround yourself with good people.
• Treat any disappointment as a learning experience.
• Maintain your mental and physical health.
• Don't let issues fester.
• Practice self-acceptance.

Group discussion was lively, and a new discussion topic was selected on the dangers of smoking. 

In the photo above, group members are attentive as they listen or participate in the Monday morning group discussion.