DBSA-NOVA, also known
as the Bipolar Support Group for Northern Virginia, is a non-profit,
self-help organization serving individuals with bipolar disorder
and their families and friends. We help people accept their illness,
manage their illness and improve their quality of life. We are
an independent affiliate of the national Depression and Bipolar
Support Alliance. We have a support group in
Centreville and Reston.
We also have a group for
Loved Ones
in
Centreville.
Our support groups are for those with depression or bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Our programs are designed to help those individuals. Our support groups serve to enhance the lives of those with depression or bipolar disorder and their loved ones through sharing, learning, helping and growing with a group of people who have been through similar experiences.
We can be reached at DBSANOVA.
The following groups are available:
Support Group Meeting Guidelines
*** The Depression and Bipolar Support Groups
are closed to any one who does not have depression or bipolar
disorder. The Loved Ones Group are for family and friends
only.
Share the
air:
Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one person should monopolize group time.
One person speaks at a time:
Each person should be allowed to speak free from interruption and side conversations.
What is said 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 however do 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 is o.k. not to share:
People do not have to share if they do not wish to.
It is 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.