One of the considerations of how to build a chronic illness support group is in learning how the mind works in order to come up with ways of dealing with distress.  This video looks at the thinking mind and observing mind for strategies to be able to distance yourself as well as highlighting the importance of managing your energy.  It is designed for both the patient and for anyone in a supportive role.  It is broken into three parts due to its length, one coming out each week, and each one provides an effective coping skill you can try immediately.  

You can watch the video here as well:  Chronic Illness Support Group | Dealing with Distress Part 2