If you are struggling with depression or bipolar disorder, consider joining an online support group. These free groups can help you feel more connected and understand your condition.
There are a variety of support groups, both local and national. Many are peer-led and led by people who live with mood disorders.
Access
An online support group can provide access to a community of people with bipolar disorder or depression who understand your condition. These members offer hope, encouragement and coping strategies that are practical and effective.
These groups don’t replace professional treatment or therapy but may help strengthen your motivation to stick with a mental health treatment plan. They also help family and friends understand your illness.
Mood disorders such as anxiety, bipolar disorder and depression affect nearly one in ten adults. Their symptoms often interfere with everyday life, affecting their work, relationships and quality of life.
Some people find that depression and bipolar disorder online support groups can help bolster their motivation to get treatment and stick with it. In addition, they can be an essential tool for people with mood disorders who have difficulty obtaining treatment because of financial issues.
MHA offers free online communities for those with mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder. Their community, Inspire, is moderated by MHA staff and features forums and chat rooms for members to chat and share experiences.
Intimacy
Many people with bipolar disorder or depression find it difficult to connect with others. They may be self-isolating because they think no one else understands what it’s like to live with mental health issues.
Having a support group with others experiencing the same symptoms as you can help alleviate loneliness and isolation. Members might also share helpful coping mechanisms and resources to help you cope better with your mental illness.
Online support groups can benefit those with a mental illness or their loved ones. These groups can be a great way to meet with others who understand what it’s like to live with bipolar or depression.
Some support groups may have a step process that takes members through or plans activities. Other groups are open to all and have a more open forum format that allows members to share their experiences as they see fit.
The benefits of joining an online support group for depression and bipolar disorder include the intimacy and connection gained by meeting with others who are experiencing the same conditions as you. In addition, they can provide helpful information about medications, therapy, and self-help strategies.
Support
Support groups are a great place to find emotional support for your depression or bipolar disorder. They provide a safe, judgment-free zone where you can talk openly about your symptoms and share experiences with others with similar feelings.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a person living with experienced bipolar disorder, you can find an online group that will meet your needs. These online support groups are a safe place to discuss your symptoms, share your experiences, learn from other people’s successes, and offer hope and strength.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a non-profit organization that provides free educational materials and support services. Its website includes blogs, videos, and podcasts. It also has an online support community called Inspire.
Knowledge
Online support groups can offer a wealth of knowledge about bipolar disorder and its treatment. The content is often moderated by a mental health professional or volunteer and may include tips, strategies and resources to help manage symptoms and live with a mental illness.
While they are not a substitute for therapy or medication, they can help people with bipolar disorder work through challenges and stay on track with their treatment plans. Additionally, family members and loved ones can get advice from peers who understand what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder.
One such place to find support is the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, or DBSA, which offers peer-led national and local groups. DBSA also has a dedicated group for caregivers, friends and family of those with bipolar disorder.
Another option is Mental Health America’s Inspire, a moderated community where users can chat with others with bipolar disorder. You can also connect with patient advocacy partners for expert advice about your condition. Unlike other bipolar disorder support groups, Inspire lets you chat with people in real time without waiting for an established meeting time.
Connection
Support groups are a great way to connect with others who understand the struggles of living with a mental health condition. They can also provide emotional support and help you find new coping strategies.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed with bipolar disorder or have been in treatment for years, joining an online support group may be helpful. The right group can help you discuss medication side effects, treatment options, coping strategies, and more.
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, formerly the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association, offers regular online support groups for individuals and families. They offer education, tools, peer support, and inspiring stories to help you pursue your path to wellness.
Another great option is Mental Health America’s Inspire, which features 24/7 chat rooms for support with patient advocacy partners. These groups will only replace professional help, but they can be valuable resources on your phone anytime.
These online support groups are run by mental health practitioners or volunteers who the disorder themselves has impacted. They’re moderated and offer confidentiality.
