About DBSA Support Groups
If you’re curious how DBSA support groups work or what to expect, you’ve come to the right place. See the frequently asked questions below, or contact us with any questions you may have.
What happens in a support group?
DBSA support group meetings focus on mutual aid and strategies for living the fullest life possible. By sharing experiences, insights, and ideas, people get peer-to-peer support from others who have been there.
What qualifications and training do support group facilitators have?
Each support group meeting is facilitated by someone with depression or bipolar disorder or a loved one. Facilitators receive training in helping meetings run smoothly, but they are not healthcare professionals.
Do support groups take the place of therapy?
No. Group participation is a valuable supplement to professional care (whether that care includes medication, talk therapy, or other treatment methods) but is not a substitute for it.
Do I need to register or sign up?
No. There’s no need to do anything at all to join a group other than show up.
How much does a support group cost?
All DBSA support groups are completely free. There are no charges of any kind to join!
Are families or loved ones allowed to come, too?
Yes! We encourage family members and loved ones over the age of 18 to attend with you.
Is childcare provided?
DBSA support groups do not provide childcare at this time. If childcare is an impediment for you attending the group, contact the group facilitator for suggestions.
Why are groups held in churches?
DBSA-OK does not have a religious affiliation of any kind. However, churches frequently donate their rooms and space for community use, and are therefore a common meeting place for DBSA support groups.
I’m in crisis. Should I come to a support group for help?
No. DBSA does not provide crisis services. If you’re in mental health crisis or having thoughts of hurting yourself or others CALL or TEXT 988, Oklahoma’s mental health lifeline.
Are DBSA support groups for adolescents, or just adults?
DBSA groups are open to those 18 or older. For information about services for youth, contact the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health.
Support Group Guidelines
DBSAOK Virtual Support Group Guidelines
Share the air
Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one should monopolize the group time.
One person speaks at a time.
Each person should be allowed to speak without interruption or side conversations.
What is said here stays here
This is the essential principle of confidentiality, it must be respected by everyone.
Differences of opinion are OK
We are all entitled to our own point of view.
We are all equal.
We accept cultural, gender, linguistic, social, racial, religious, and all other differences and we promote their acceptance.
Use “I” language
Because we don’t participate in discussion groups as credentialed professionals, we can’t instruct. We can, however, share from our own experiences. For example, instead of saying ‘you should do X,” say “when I was faced with a similar problem, I . . .” We should always frame our comments in the context of our own experiences.
It’s OK not to share
People don’t have to share if they don’t want to.
It’s 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.
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The use of tobacco, vaping, or smoking devices/products are not permitted during virtual groups.
We kindly ask that you please step away from the meeting as you would during an in-person meeting.
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DBSAOK In-Person Support Group Guidelines
DBSAOK In-Person Support Group Guidelines
Share the air
Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one should monopolize the group time.
One person speaks at a time.
Each person should be allowed to speak without interruption or side conversations.
What is said here stays here
This is the essential principle of confidentiality, it must be respected by everyone.
Differences of opinion are OK
We are all entitled to our own point of view.
We are all equal.
We accept cultural, gender, linguistic, social, racial, religious, and all other differences and we promote their acceptance.
Use “I” language
Because we don’t participate in discussion groups as credentialed professionals, we can’t instruct. We can, however, share from our own experiences. For example, instead of saying ‘you should do X,” say “when I was faced with a similar problem, I . . .” We should always frame our comments in the context of our own experiences.
It’s OK not to share
People don’t have to share if they don’t want to.
It’s 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.
***