Welcome to DBSA’s Online Support Groups!
We’re glad you found us.
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the leading peer-directed national organization focusing on depression and bipolar disorder. DBSA’s peer-based, wellness-oriented, and empowering services and resources are available when people need them, where they need them, and how they need to receive them—online 24/7, in local support groups, in audio and video casts, or in printed materials distributed by DBSA, our chapters, and mental health care facilities across America.
DBSA online support groups provide people living with depression and bipolar disorder a place to share experiences, discuss coping skills, and offer hope to one another. DBSA support groups are peer-led, meaning they are facilitated by someone living with a mood disorder.
Online Support Groups
DBSA online support groups give people living with depression and bipolar disorder a safe, welcoming place to share experiences, discuss coping skills, and offer each other hope. With the support of generous donors and friends, we are rapidly adding more groups to meet the urgent need for online support.
Our support groups are led by peers – which means that the person guiding the meeting knows firsthand what it’s like to live with a mood disorder. In addition to our general support groups, we offer specialized groups for:
- Young adults
- Military Veterans from all branches of the service
- Female minority Veterans
- Seniors aged 60 and over, offered in English and Spanish
- Friends, family and caregivers caring for loved ones with mood disorders
All DBSA online support groups are free of charge. However, in this time of growing need, we welcome gifts in any amount that will help us open more groups to meet the demand. Click here to give.
Join a Support Group
Our meeting schedule is listed below. Please log in to register for and attend a support group. If you haven’t already created a user account, we welcome you to do so. The process is quick and easy.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
Meeting Guidelines
We read the guidelines before each meeting to remind us that we are all responsible for following and committing to the group standards, which are in place to keep this group a safe place to share.
Share the air
Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one person should monopolize group time.
One person speaks at a time
Each person should be allowed to speak free from interruption and side conversations.
What is said here stays here
This is the essential principle of confidentiality, and MUST be respected by all.
Differences of opinion are o.k.
We are ALL entitled to our own point of view.
We are all equal
We accept cultural, linguistic, social and racial differences and promote their acceptance.
Use “I” language
Because we do not participate in support groups as credentialed professionals, we do not INSTRUCT or ADVISE. We however do share from our own personal experiences. We are unique individuals, and only we know what is best for our own health (along with our doctor’s recommendations). Example: “In my experience, I have found…”
It’s o.k. not to share
People do not have to share if they do not wish to.
It’s everyone’s responsibility to make the discussion groups a safe place to share.
We respect confidentiality, treat each other with respect and kindness, and show compassion.
Have questions?
Here’s how to reach us:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
55 E. Jackson Blvd, Suite 490
Chicago IL 60604
(800) 826-3632
Website