VTMHCA News

Spring 2007

 

Help Bring Hope and Support to People with Mood Disorders

 

Nearly 20 million people in the United States live with depression or bipolar disorder. These are dangerous, potentially devastating illnesses, but recovery is possible. Peer support groups like those offered through local chapters of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) give people with mood disorders, their family and friends a place to share experiences, discuss coping skills and offer hope to one another. As the nation's largest patient-directed, non-profit organization focusing on depression and bipolar disorder, DBSA has nearly 1,000 support groups across the country. At this time, however, there are no DBSA support groups in Vermont.

We need your help to ensure that everyone, no matter their location, has access to peer support. DBSA is actively seeking individuals across Vermont to start new peer-led support groups for individuals living with depression or bipolar disorder. Please share this information. Please also consider helping DBSA or a local individual start a peer-support group in your area. With nearly 1 in 9 people in the United States living with depression or bipolar disorder, there is a need in every community for hope, help and support.

For more information or to request DBSA's free start-up guide, Starting a DBSA Chapter, please contact Elizabeth Siegel at (800) 826-3632 ext. 154. For more information about DBSA, please visit our website.