DBSA has been very positive for me. I need the meetings as part of my therapy. DBSA Greater Houston participant

DBSA Greater Houston sponsors free and confidential support groups that assist in the recovery of individuals with depression or bipolar disorder along with family members and friends. Our support groups are also offered and sustain family members, caregivers and friends who are trying to understand these two difficult mental illnesses as they try to assist their loved ones.

WHY SUPPORT GROUPS?
The psychiatric community strongly recommends a three-pronged approach to successful treatment of and recovery from a mood disorder: (1) psychotropic medications, (2) talk therapy and (3) knowledgeable support. The support of others plays a crucial role in helping someone manage his or her mood disorder. Unfortunately, it is estimated that fewer than 10% of diagnosed individuals have an adequate support system within their daily life (Arthur Schoenstadt, 2008). For the majority of those diagnosed, facilitated support groups can serve as the crucial third step in a treatment program. The DBSA support group system meets this need by bringing together diagnosed individuals, as well as family members and friends, in an environment that fosters empathy, education and empowerment. The benefits of support groups range from the practical to the emotional: