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You are not alone. Our purpose is to support all
those dealing with the devastating effects of mood disorders.
Mood disorders are manageable. Life can be lived despite
the challenges of being depressive or having bipolar disorder. The first step in getting better is admitting you are ill and
that you need help. Our group meetings help ground new people in the reality of life with a mood disorder. We welcome all
who come seeking support and affirmation.
Most meetings consist of small-group "rap sessions".
These peer-facilitated groups are forums in which participants discuss current life-issues and support one another. We have
separate rap groups for patients and family members. Occasionally, we have an invited professional address the entire group.
At each meeting, we offer an extensive array of informational pamphlets and brochures at no charge. Additionally,
we have a lending library with books, videos, and audio tapes available.
Topics often raised by members at our meetings are:
Bipolar
(a.k.a. Manic-depression)
How other people view mood swings; why they often seem to equate happiness with mania or sadness
with depression.
Depression.
How depression affects all aspects of life, work, family, and friends.
The
effects of medication.
The sometimes long and painful recovery process.
The effects of medication.
Staying well learning to recognize the difference between
happiness and mania, sadness, and depression.
Family members and friends.
Anger at the illness and at the lack of ‘control”
of the loved one.
Understanding what triggers an episode.
Learning what to say and do.
The support groups are
guided by the principles of sharing, confidentiality, trust, responsibility, and mutual respect. Respecting these principles,
we work together to understand, gain confidence, and recover.
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