Are You Feeling Sh*tty? Theme: Belonging

Everyone feels shitty sometimes, and it's okay. It's okay to feel shitty. This is a group that gets together to talk about different facets of life; our shitty moments, our great moments, and how we might better cope with the complexity of the human condition. You don't need to be feeling shitty to join, just curious about improving your mental health in an honest, supportive place.

Last time, our discussion about attachment was so rich that we didn't get to talk about belonging. So, this week's theme will be belonging.

To belong is among our most fundamental human needs. Yet what creates a sense of belonging, where we find it, and what we're willing to sacrifice to maintain it can vary enormously between people, relationships and cultures. While belonging can provide security, meaning and connection, our pursuit of it can also bring us into conflict with our individuality, values and desire for independence.

Together, we'll explore what makes us feel that we belong, how we build and maintain meaningful connections, and the sometimes complicated relationship between belonging, identity, authenticity and community. Through sharing our experiences and reflecting on ideas from psychology, philosophy and beyond, we'll consider not only how we can cultivate a greater sense of belonging in our own lives, but also how we can create it for others.

Our sessions follow a set structure:

Part 1: Grounding & greetings
Part 2: Group discussion of theme
Part 3: Listening session. Anyone can share why they’re feeling shitty, no one offers advice in return (unrelated to the week's theme).
Part 4: Gratitude exercise & social time

This is an advice-free-zone; simply a place to share, discuss and listen with curiosity and non-judgement.

The event location is my private apartment in Russafa. I will share the exact location on RSVP. Please try your hardest to arrive 5-10 minutes early, so we can start without interruptions.

Wishing you all the best,

Charley