Local bipolar support groups join forces with DBSA

The bipolar support groups now meeting in Bella Vista and Rogers have joined the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.

The two local groups have met for 10 years. DBSA is a national organization educating the public, mental health professionals and sponsoring support groups across the USA.

Begun in 1985, DBSA had 1,000 groups nationally in 2010 and has steadily grown in lockstep with the rapidly increasing mentally ill population. Chartered as NWA Bipolar Support Group, new sub-groups anywhere in Benton and Washington counties are encouraged to join. Attendees have come from as far away as Tulsa, OK.

Both bipolar support groups now welcome new members with no costs or attendance requirements.

Monday meetings are from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Andrews Church at 9th and Oak Streets in Rogers and from 5 to 7 p.m. at Forest Hills Church, 1702 Forest Hills Blvd., in the Bella Vista Highlands.

There are three knowledgeable non-professional peer facilitators for the existing groups with a combined 93 years of having bipolar disorder and 32 years of certified counseling experience.

Call either 479-659-1229 or 479-268-6245 for information or email NWABSG at [email protected]. Visit www.BipolarAid.org for more information on mood disorders.