Starting a DBSA Chapter
Monday May 5, 2008
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the leading patient-directed national organization focusing on the most prevalent mental illnesses. DBSA supports research to promote more timely diagnosis, develop more effective and tolerable treatments and discover a cure. The organization works to ensure that people living with mood disorders are treated equitably. A cornerstone of this organizations work is its grassroots network of nearly 1,000 patient-run support groups across the country. Our peer-led chapters and support groups serve about 70,000 people every year. Support groups play an important role in recovery with 86 percent of support group members reporting that their group helped with treatment adherence.
Pam, a member of our Forums, shares “The area where I live does not have a DBSA. I was thinking of starting a chapter where I live. My questions are: Do you belong to one? How has it helped you? Are you a facilitator or a member? What has been your experience being either a member or a facilitator?"
Comments
Hi Pam,
I’ve been attending a DBSA meeting for about 6 months now and find it very helpful. If nothing more it’s nice to be surrounded by a group of people who “get it”.
I’ve also found the information and feedback we give each other very helpful. Remember, we don’t give medical opinions, just our own experiences.
The meeting I attend is far away and the one closer to me is Christian based. I prefer one that is non-denominational so I am in the process of starting one here also. It’s been a lot of work and I’m sure we could do more to get it started, but I’m sure it will get going in the end.
Good Luck
Thanks, Brad!
I wish you the best with yours, too!
Let me know how things are going with your group. I’ve had to slow down a bit. I tend to get overstimulated by projects I undertake.
I have made several phone calls to DBSA and I’ve got an email address for the chapter. I guess that’s a start.
An Announcement I received recently that may be of interest to all.
DBSA 2008 NATIONAL CONFERENCE • NORFOLK, VA
Check out the following link:
http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/DocServer/PofP_Brochure_4.2.pdf?docID=1341
Arizona has just gotten approved for a state chapter lead by myself. We are hoping to reach out to all Arizona. We will help you start a peer-support group or chapter.