Online Communities, Support Groups, Message Boards

Users can explore topics of discussion by posting questions and/or discussion topics surrounding a specific theme in a designated area of a site, commonly referred to as a message board. They can also review previous discussion topics by following the threads of dialogue posted on the site. Many of the major search engines (including Yahoo!, AOL, and Google) create virtual communities through discussion groups on health topics which you can find by clicking on the "groups" link from the home page and typing in your topic of interest.

Blog

Blog allows users to communicate in real-time with other visitors to the "chat area." Some health web sites offer free expert advice by providing real-time access to a health care professional who can help address their questions.

Look for chats that have a host or moderator. These are typically chats with credible sources (though not always). There also are unmoderated health care chats that may or may not have credible information. In unmoderated chats, be very cautious with advice given to you by anyone, even if they claim to be a physician.

Mentoring Programs (a one-on-one connection)

Some sites have programs in place that allow users to submit a profile and be connected to a compatible mentor who can offer helpful tips and advice.
What are the risks?

As with all things on the Internet, you are dealing with unknown sources. Anyone can post anything in an unmoderated group. For example, sales pitches, gibberish and insults make their way into groups and mailing list content. Most groups do have rules of etiquette, but it is up to everyone involved to follow the guidelines.