I would definately attend the PTSS group.. it is better than no group at all. And after you have gotten used to being in a group and see how it is run, then start a group for HS sufferers.. or those who have debilitating diseases of ANY type. I don't know how many ppl with HS are in your area.. possibly a ton.. but rather you would have a group size adequate enough would be the question. Many people are either misdiagnosed or undiagnosed leaving us who live in less populated areas with the feeling of being the "only one". If you were to start a group that was all inclusive to anyone who had a disease which they felt was detremental to their lives, then you would most likely find a larger group and possibly even find people who have HS but don't know what it is!
Being in a group and having the opportunity to meet face to face to share stories and advice, as well as support, is a wonderful opportunity that I sincerely hope you take advantage of. You will be suprised at how much it helps you mentally and emotionally. Been there, done that and loved it!

I should also probably add that when I attended group it was on the advice of my own psych doctor and it was a diverse group of people with many problems from drugs to medical. At the time I did NOT have a proper diagnosis and did NOT know that I had HS, I just knew that I had "something" that was fucking up my life horribly. I was all alone.. again the "only one".. and needed help desperately to find a reason to keep living. This group of diverse people helped me more that I could ever possibly tell you, and I am grateful for the chance I took in attending. I was scared to death, and it was a HUGE step for me to attend because of my own fear of people and agoraphobia.. give it a chance.. and give yourself a chance when you do. Huggs

I'm not sure what state you live in, but there are support groups by state. I live in VA and there wasn't one here, but there was one in Maryland, they get together once a year to have and HS bash, just dinner and drinks, so I went to that, and then decided to start my own HS group for VA a couple months ago, and in 2 months we have 9 people already, so I'm hoping to have a get together at some point. NO one in my own hometown though.

Okay I just looked and didn't see a support group for WA. Are you on facebook? Its very easy to create a group. If you are interested in doing that I'm happy to help you set it up. I also run a face book support group for the HS community as a whole, and then my VA HS support group. I'm more than happy to spread the word and help you find some people in WA that could join it. Let me know if you are interested.

i dont have the motivation to start a group im affraid lol, but if there was one here in my state I would definately go to it. I am strictly on disability income that doesnt pay much so I cant afford to travel for a group and I find it difficult to travel because of the HS.
I'm glad that there are tho.

I def. understand that. A lot of people have to cancel last minute for the gatherings because their HS is flared, so it does make it difficult. I think money is a big issue too, so many people out of work for it, and struggling, makes me sad. I know disability only pays you enough to literally just get by. I'm living that now. I hope you are able to find someone in your area. It does make a difference to meet someone face to face and have that support...but know we are here for you now, even through distance. :)