Self-help groups by computer

There are now support groups on the major computer networks (accessible by phone and modem) for every sort of affliction and lifestyle, from diabetes to dieting, from veterans to gays. Eden Stone joined a diabetics support group and says that 'some of what we discussed in the group by computer was practical information about doctors, self-care, and dealing with emotional ups and downs. At other times we engaged in mere fellowship about our favourite novels, vacations, family members and pets.'

Computer networks CompuServe and GEnie are available through standard communications software, whilst Prodigy and America Online require special software packages.