Our self-help support groups are one of Aware Defeat Depression’s key services, providing regular in-person support in communities across Northern Ireland.
For a full list of our Support Groups, click here
In this section of the website we aim to answer any questions you may have about support groups but feel free to contact the helpline if you have any queries or concerns about attending for the first time.
Who are the groups for?
The groups are for people who are affected by depression or bipolar disorder (manic depression). This includes sufferers, relatives and friends. Our support group meetings are attended by men and women of a variety of ages.
What is the purpose of the group?
The group has two main purposes:
1. To bring you together with people experiencing similar problems, so that through identifying with them, you can support and be supported by them.
2. To enable you to learn more about your own illness, the treatments available and help you to develop coping skills.
How many meetings should I attend?
This very much depends on you, although attendance at a number of consecutive meetings is advised to achieve maximum benefit.
Who takes charge of the meetings?
A group leader facilitates each support group meeting. These are normally experienced support group members who have received appropriate training from Aware Defeat Depression. However, facilitators are lay people and therefore, cannot offer advice or opinions about medical matters. Information booklets written by professionals are available at each group meeting.
How long do meetings last?
Meetings usually last between 1 and 1 ½ hours.
What happens at group meetings?
The meetings are very informal. After brief introductions, individuals may talk about their experiences, share information and ask questions. No member is obliged to speak however, and short periods of silence are normal.
Aware Defeat Depression emphasises that everyone who attends the group meeting has something to give and receive. Although members may talk freely and give their views on different issues, each person ultimately makes up his/her own mind about matters discussed.
Is there a fee?
There is no charge for attending group meetings. However, voluntary contributions are welcome.
Group Rules
Confidentiality
Due to the nature of the meetings, everything discussed is strictly confidential and must not be talked about outside the group. In addition, the identity of group members should not be revealed to others.
Medication
Facilitators are not medically qualified and cannot therefore, discuss specific medications or diagnoses.
Inclusive Organisation
Aware Defeat Depression is a voluntary organisation concerned solely with supporting all those affected by depression or bipolar disorder. In order to ensure an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, inappropriate comments relating to religion, politics, race or gender are not permitted at group meetings.
Alcohol
As group involvement requires clear thinking, we strong recommend that you do not drink prior to the group meeting.
Lateness
Because of the disruption caused by late arrivals, we would ask group members to make every effort to be punctual for meetings.
Smoking
We operate a no smoking policy at all group meetings.
Relationships
As group participation involves deep sharing often at a time when people are emotionally vulnerable, Aware considers one-to-one relationships between group members outside the group setting to be unwise.
What people have said about the Support Groups