Ending participation: agreeing a signal and support
В мені · VMENI · Updated · 2 min read
Agree a finishing signal before starting: a simple “stop”, “I am finishing”, or a clear gesture. After it, the facilitator should move to the agreed ending rather than persuade you to continue. Wanting to stop needs no justification.
Make the agreement clear
You can say: “When I say I am finishing, we finish without further persuasion.” If speaking may be difficult, agree a visible gesture and make sure the facilitator understands it.
Agree the support separately
Discuss who stays nearby, whether touch is allowed, which touch, and how consent can be withdrawn. The physical method of finishing must fit the equipment and support arrangement; a page cannot replace explanation on site.
If the signal is ignored
Repeat clearly that you are finishing and do not consent to continuing. Afterwards you may choose not to return and tell the organiser about the specific breach. Finishing is not a failure or a lack of trust.
A clear example
“When I say stop, please do not ask for another ten seconds. We finish as agreed first; conversation afterwards is optional.” Ask the facilitator to repeat the agreement. If they reject the signal in advance, do not start in that format.
What if I requested encouragement?
Encouragement is different from cancelling the stop signal. Agree supportive words separately while retaining a clear unconditional signal. “Continue if you want” does not transfer the decision to someone else. An earlier wish to try does not make continued participation compulsory.
Agree what follows the signal
Name who responds, explains the next action and provides agreed support for the equipment. A gesture must be visible in the real position and group setting. Repeating the agreement checks understanding; it is not an endurance exercise or a promise never to change your mind.
Original organisational examples by В мені · VMENI; not individual medical advice.
Prepared by В мені · VMENI with AI assistance.