The DBSA Chapter Network includes more than 70 chapters across the United States. Individuals interested in starting a DBSA Support Group are encouraged to first contact their nearest chapter to explore opportunities to expand support in their community.
To find your nearest chapter, click here.
Minimum Requirements
- Identify as a peer living with a mood disorder, or as a family member or friend of someone living with a mood disorder (Family members and friends may start Family & Friends Support Groups)
- Have attended at least three DBSA support groups:
- If you have not attended a DBSA support group yet, please do so before getting started.
- This helps you understand DBSA’s support group model and determine if it is the right fit for you
Overview of the Process
- Review the minimum requirements and FAQs
- Locate the nearest chapter using our chapter listings page
- If you need help identifying the closest chapter, contact chapters@dbsalliance.org
DBSA recommends that all peers interested in starting a support group provide the following details to the chapter:
- Proposed location of the support group
- Whether the group will be in-person or online
- Type of support group (who it will serve)
- Marketing plan to promote the support group
- Any previous support group facilitator or leadership experience
FAQ
What is a peer?
DBSA defines a peer as an individual living with a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder. All DBSA’s support groups are led by peers. Peer support groups are a place for individuals to connect with others who understand what it is like to live with depression or bipolar disorder.
What is the difference between a chapter and a support group?
DBSA chapters and support groups have different requirements and legal structures. A chapter is a business entity with its own EIN and must meet certain requirements to remain affiliated with DBSA; DBSA’s chapters are bound by the DBSA affiliation agreement. A support group is not a business entity but is part of their chapter’s business. The support group must follow all policies and procedures of their chapter. The chapter oversees your support group but may require that you send a representative from your support group to be involved in chapter leadership.
What is a facilitator?
A facilitator is a peer trained to facilitate a DBSA support group. A facilitator does not lecture or give advice, rather, they are equipped with skills that allow them to ensure the safety of the group by following and enforcing support group guidelines. They facilitate the check-in, open discussion, and check-out.
What training is needed to become a facilitator?
The training requirements may vary because each chapter is a separate business entity. DBSA provides free training for facilitators, but a chapter leader must endorse you to register. You can review the training opportunities here. Please speak with a representative from your chapter for endorsement.
Do I have to be connected to a chapter to start a support group?
All DBSA Support Groups must be connected to a chapter to begin their support group. DBSA is not starting chapters in areas already served by an existing chapter.
What happens if the closest chapter to me isn’t accepting new support groups, but I still want to run a support group?
You may work with a different nearby chapter or partner with another organization.
If no groups are near me, what are my options for attending 3 DBSA support group meetings?
You can attend DBSA’s online support groups. You can view the support group listings here.
Before You Get Started
We strongly recommend attending at least three DBSA support groups before launching your own. Many chapters offer virtual groups, making it easy to participate regardless of location.
- Attending existing groups provides valuable insight into DBSA’s model
- It also helps you build connections with chapter leaders and community members
DBSA also recommends that at least one leader from each support group volunteer on the chapter board. With virtual meeting technology, chapters can collaborate across large geographic areas without requiring travel. Even if the nearest chapter is several hours away, we encourage you to reach out and explore opportunities to work together.
Chapter Development
At this time, DBSA is not establishing new chapters in regions that are already served by an existing chapter. If you are located in an area without a DBSA chapter, please contact chapters@dbsalliance.org to learn more about starting a new DBSA Chapter.
