Phd Support Groups: From Sceptic to True Believer

PhDs can be lonely and challenging endeavours; students come across setbacks, imposter syndrome sets in, motivation wanes and productivity slows (Denman et al, 2018 : Gin et al, 2021). However, when students can access quality support, these issues can be overcome (Naylor et al, 2018 : Elliot, 2020). Nonetheless, there can be challenges in being able to access this and pitfalls leading to negative experiences. In order to explore this, this essay will reflect on my own experiences of one type of support: informal PhD support groups. I joined my support group when I started to struggle with my PhD in 2021 despite my scepticism of the benefits and time ‘cost’. However, it has offered me the benefits of advice, reassurance, community and collaboration by the way in which it is run and how the members approach it. Thus, I have been converted from sceptic to true believer and I will conclude this essay by encouraging all fellow PhD students to give them a chance. Keywords: PhD support groups, advice, reassurance, community, collaboration