Re Mind

After seeing my wife go through a manic episode I was scared and unsure of what I could do to make things better. Attending DBSA gave me a place to process my anxiety and to gain the support of others in my same situation. We are facilitators now, and giving back as best we can to others.

DBSA's extraordinary growth over the past five years in particular attest to its success in helping those suffering with depression and bipolar disorder. The evidence is in observing and learning about the hope that DBSA provides to participants in the more than 70 support groups that meet in 40 locations across the city. Day after day there is a moving story about the hope that these support groups bring.

I was attending a community luncheon this past year and sat next to a woman I did not know. I introduced myself and we exchanged information about ourselves. I said I was on the board of DBSA. She exclaimed, "You all at DBSA saived my daughter's life!" If that wasn't a testament to t he power of DBSA support groups, I don't know what is. These groups can make such a difference in the lives of persons struggling with depression of bipolar disorder. I am t hankful to be a part of the solution to those recovering from these illnesses.

With every support meeting, DBSA-Houston changes lives. It provides a safe and nurturing group so that those struggling with depression and/or bipolar get the help and information they need, but most importantly, DBSA helps them realize that they are not alone.

DBSA is a great organization that helps thousands of people in Houston. What I honor about DBSA is that they include everyone and go out of their way to help all minorities. I facilitate three groups a week that were developed to help minorities in need: Hispanics, teenagers, and the GLBT community.

DBSA Houston and the Clearlake Chapter in particular have become a integral part of my recovery process. After my diagnosis, I really didn't know what to do with my label "Bi Polar." The support group helped me in realizing I wasn't the only person feeling helpless and angry about that description. It had a very calming and grounding effect for me. Now, I'm working on my recovery by helping members who felt like I did almost 2 years ago. Instead of it being a stigmata, it's become a banner I wear proudly because of the importance for others to learn about DBSA Houston and find their way to recovery and acceptance.

DBSA-Houston has made a huge impact in my recovery from bipolar disorder. I attend at least 2 support meetings a week and look forward to both. There is no other venue where I can hear firsthand how others are dealing with this severe diagnosis. I am in remission right now and am grateful for this. Last year, before attending DBSA, I had 4 hospitalizations ad 2 failed suicide attempts. Big difference today!

I am a Professional Psychotherapist, Life Coach, and Yoga Instructor. I became involved with DBSA in 2009 after moving to Houston from New Orleans. I currently lead groups in 2 Houston High Schools. Each time I end a group meeting I feel myself awed, filled with a humbling gratitude for the honor of being a part of such a supportive organization, one that brings FREE, QUALITY services to any and all who make the choice to attend.

DBSA offers me the opportunity to give back. I so very much needed support as an adolescent, and found myself lost. I remember the desperation I felt, aware I needed help, surrounded by family consumed by their own issues and unable to support, guide, or provide me with services. The process I get to see is amazing. I don't even know how to find words to give the process justice. A member's first support group experience is often awkward, shy, dejected, and guarded. As the process unfolds, I get to witness what naturally occurs when we find out we are not the only one, that others care, others have learned how to greatly improve the quality of their lives, giving hope and possibility to all. There is such beauty in healing and hope; DBSA offers real people real coping strategies through support. I am honored to be a part of DBSA--as a Professional Facilitator, as a group member, as a true believer in the healing power of people.

I became involved with DBSA about 3 years ago and boy has my understanding of Bipolar changed, and changed for the better. I have come to realize that everyone is dealing with some issue in their life. Unfortunately, for some people they can't control the extremes that their moods and behaviors cycle through. That is where proper medication can help. I never thought I would ever sit in a room and discuss suicide with someone but that is exactly what we should do. Don't sweep unpleasent issues under the rug, sit up and talk about them even if you are not exactly sure what to say. Inaction never helped anyone, but talking openly with people that are struggling can help tremendously. Remember, NORMAL is only a setting on your dryer!

I was diagnosed with depression in 1985 and always felt like I was alone in my struggles. About 3 years ago I found out about DBSA and I found so many stories similar to my own. Now I feel like I'm a part of something bigger than myself. I have a sense of belonging. I feel that DBSA groups are an invaluable way for participants to share experiences, knowledge and coping techniques.

I became involved with DBSA after my adult son was diagnosed with the disorder. We first attended to find out how others coped with this diagnosis. After a while, we realized that we really enjoyed the interaction with both the diagnosed as well as caregivers and family support members. We were no longer afraid of the future. There was a road to recovery and a good life. We became facilitators and continued to learn and help others. It has been such a positive experience for us. The program coordinators and other professionals are always available to help if issues arise. As my husband likes to say, "There are only two types of people...diagnosed and undiagnosed." None of us are without some problem to deal with in our lives." DBSA just helps to deal with some really important ones!

My sister's DBSA support group has helped her so much. She has learned she is not alone living with her mental illness which has been not only comforting but also life changing for her.