Support groups for Bipolar Disorder

Living and dealing with bipolar disorder is not easy for the person living with it or their loved ones. Knowledge and recognition of the illness by all concerned can prevent a lot of unnecessary pain and suffering, and this is where support groups play a vital role.

Shared experiences of others in similar or worse situations, acceptance and understanding, as well as helping and advising others definitely assist in dealing with the many challenges presented by living with bipolar disorder.

Bipolar Association of South Africa

One of the most important support groups is the Bipolar Association of South Africa, which has branches in centres such as Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria (Tshwane), Johannesburg and Randburg.

The Association’s website also indicates many other bipolar disorder and South African mental health sites.

Bipolar Association of South Africa

Website: http://www.bipolar.co.za/supportsa.htm

E-mail: info@bipolar.co.za

Contact numbers: Cape Town 072 424 1812 (Jay) or 082 412 4448 (Michelle)

Tshwane Bipolar Association

E-mail: Moodswing@absamail.co.za

Contact numbers: 012 803 3392 or 012 348 6057 (Colleen)

Johannesburg Bipolar Asscociation

E-mail: bipolar@urbanblue.net

Contact numbers: 082 551 4592 or 082 376 7404; 082 263 9055 (Lee)

Randburg Bipolar Family Support Group

E-mail: skennedy@multichoice.co.za

Contact numbers: 082 775 6544 (Suzi)

Durban Bipolar Support Group

Contact number: 031 205 8915

South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)

Another very important support group is the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). Please note that most of the support groups are led by private individuals and it is best to contact SADAG first to confirm whether the details have been changed.

You can contact on 011 262 6396 or 0860 103 645; and also

SADAG

Website: http://www.Depressionremedy.com

Contact numbers:

tel. 011 783 1474

tel. 014 718 1009

tel. 021 913 4046

tel. 041 364 2746

tel. 031 701 1378

LifeLine

LifeLine is an important telephonic source, particularly if suicidal challenges present themselves.

Lifeline

Contact numbers:

tel. 011 728 1331/1347;

tel. 031 312 2323

tel. 057 357 2746

tel. 021 461 1111