Here are some support groups available to people with bipolar disorder along with their links:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – NAMI provides support and education to individuals and families affected by mental illness, including bipolar disorder. They offer support groups specifically for people with bipolar disorder. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://www.nami.org/Find-Support/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition/Support-Groups/Bipolar-Disorder-Support-Groups
- Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) – DBSA is a national organization that provides support groups, education, and advocacy for people with bipolar disorder and depression. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://www.dbsalliance.org/support/chapters-and-support-groups/find-a-support-group/
- International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF) – IBPF is a non-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and support to individuals with bipolar disorder and their families. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://ibpf.org/resource/support-groups/
- The Balanced Mind Foundation – This is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources for families and children with bipolar disorder. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://www.bbrfoundation.org/family-center/resource/balanced-mind-parent-network
- Bipolar UK – This is a UK-based charity that provides support and information to people affected by bipolar disorder. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://www.bipolaruk.org/find-a-support-group
- SupportGroups.com – This is an online platform that provides virtual support groups for people with bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. You can find more information about their support groups here: https://www.supportgroups.com/bipolar
Why Use a Support Group?
Support groups can be very helpful for individuals with bipolar disorder in several ways:
- Reducing feelings of isolation: Bipolar disorder can be a very isolating experience, and individuals with the condition may feel alone in their struggles. Support groups provide a sense of community and connection with others who understand what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder.
- Sharing coping strategies: Support groups provide a safe space where individuals can share their experiences and coping strategies with others who may be going through similar struggles. This can help people with bipolar disorder learn new ways to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
- Normalizing experiences: Hearing stories from others with bipolar disorder can help individuals feel less alone and normalize their own experiences. It can also help reduce feelings of shame or stigma associated with the condition.
- Encouraging self-care: Support groups can provide encouragement and motivation for individuals to prioritize self-care, such as getting enough sleep, exercise, and healthy food. This can be especially important for people with bipolar disorder, as self-care can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
- Providing a safe space to vent: Support groups provide a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can express their frustrations, fears, and concerns about living with bipolar disorder.
Overall, support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals with bipolar disorder. They offer emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community that can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.