Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

On-line Support Groups;

Online Support Group Guidelines
All users are asked to follow these guidelines while participating in a DBSA online support group:

Share the air: We want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to share. Time is limited, though, so we ask that everyone be respectful of other participants' share-time needs.
Give back: We recognize that we often benefit as much by supporting others as we do by sharing our own struggles, triumphs, and experiences.
One person shares at a time: Each person should be allowed to share without interruptions or side conversations.
What is shared here stays here: This is the essential principle of confidentiality and must be respected by all.
Differences of opinion are o.k.: We are all entitled to our own point of view.
We are all equal: Accept cultural, linguistic, social and racial differences and promote their acceptance.
Use �I� language: Because we do not participate in support groups as credentialed professionals, we do not instruct or advise. We do, however, share from our own personal experiences. We are unique individuals, and only we know what is best for our own health (along with our doctor�s recommendations). Example: �In my experience, I have found��
It�s o.k. not to share: People do not have to share if they do not wish to. However, because space in the online support groups is limited, we ask that all participants check-in with a facilitator via private message if they do not wish to share or if they arrive late to a group.
It�s everyone�s responsibility to make the discussion groups a safe place to share: We respect confidentiality, treat each other with respect and kindness and show compassion.

Leadership

Contact Information

National Headquarters

55 E. Jackson Blvd
Suite 490
Chicago, Illinios 60604
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• Meetings are on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM at the First Methodist Church in Rochester.

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