Support Groups

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP

PURPOSE OF THE DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP

The purpose of the Depression Support Group is to provide support to individuals suffering from major depression or dysthymia, a mild form of depression. We offer a comfortable, safe environment in which to discuss experiences and problems related to depression. Members are encouraged to  give support and receive support from other members of the group. We  provide information about depression and its treatment to group members and their families. The group is not intended for people diagnosed with bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression. We can offer a referral to a different group for people with bipolar disorder.

The group facilitators assist members with identifying their issues/problems which may be causing or influencing their depression. This group is for members who are actively working on identifying or working through their issues. Facilitators can also help members locate mental health professionals (psychiatrists, therapists, etc.) who can assist them in dealing with their depression and working through their issues. 

It is important to understand that we are not a substitute for professional therapy, rather we serve as one part of the treatment model for depression, which consists of a psychiatrist, therapist, support system/group, education, and healthy lifestyle changes. Your psychiatrist will prescribe medication for you, while your therapist or counselor is someone you can talk to on a regular basis for professional support and guidance. Your support system may include your family, friends, spirituality and a support group. Education means learning about your illness and empowering yourself to get the help you need from those around you. Finding and making lifestyle choices that are right for you, like relaxing, eating healthy, and exercising will also help your recovery. We believe the best treatment for depression exists when all of these components are in place.

The group and its facilitators can help you process what you discuss with your therapist and the information and suggestions he/she offers. We can help you learn how to use the tools your therapist teaches you. We do not warrant information you may gain concerning any provider nor do we license, endorse, or recommend any particular provider. Only you will be able to determine whether the quaility of care is appropriate for your need.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND THE DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP

The Depression Support Group is intended for people who are experiencing situational depression due to a major loss or life change or those who have been diagnosed with either major depression or dysthymia. This group is not intended for persons with other primary diagnoses. We will be happy to refer members with other diagnoses to other groups that would better suit their needs. Meetings are open, meaning friends and family members of people with depression are welcome to attend if the member agrees.
 

COMMITMENT

The Depression Support Group has been meeting weekly since December 4, l992. Average attendance can be anywhere from 6 to 15 members. More than 300 people have benefited from the Group. Members can come for a few weeks while they are in need of additional support or they can stay with the group for several months, or years--It is really up to you!

ROLE OF THE MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

The Mental Health Association of Northern Kentucky provides the facilitator, sponsors the group, advertises its presence, and provides information on depression to the public and to group members. MHA also provides a meeting place and facilitators for the group.

SCREENING PROCESS FOR THE DEPRESSION GROUP

We ask that you call the number below before attending your first meeting. We will ask you some questions pertaining to your situation (your primary diagnosis, how you heard about the group, etc.). After you attend two or three groups, the facilitators will contact you by phone or set up a meeting with you to discuss whether or not you feel the group will meet your needs and if you feel the group is appropriate for you. The facilitators will also determine whether or not the group seems appropriate for your current situation and offer suggestions if not.

SCHIZOPHRENICS ANONYMOUS

The Recovery Network of Northern Kentucky offers a weekly support group for those recovering from Schizophrenia. There are a number of people who meet at RNNK each week for support in dealing with the outside world. Meetings are held every Wednesday afternoon starting at 1:30pm. Recovery Network is located at 513 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor in Covington. For more information or questions please call RNNK at 
(859) 431-2134 or visit their web site at http://rnnk.org.
 

B.R.I.D.G.E.S.
Building Recovery of Individual Dreams and Goals through Education and Support

B.R.I.D.G.E.S is a consumer facilitated support group available to anyone who is diagnosed with a mental illness. It provides a structured way for individuals to strengthen each other's coping skills as each deals with the realities of daily life with a diagnosis of mental illness. As consumers, we recognize that we have gained expertise and abilities from our own experiences to help ourselves, and each other, in ways that professionals can't.

Therefore, B.R.I.D.G.E.S is dedicated to offering a support program for mental health consumers that is facilitated by mental health consumers. Most importantly, these meetings supply the emotional "glue" that enables people to come together to ease individual and group feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, or guilt. B.R.I.D.G.E.S is offered every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 12:30pm at NorthKey's Sunshine House. Sunshine House is located at 722 Scott St. in Covington.

B.R.I.D.G.E.S is sponsored by the Recovery Network of Northern Kentucky.

For more information or questions please call RNNK at (859) 431-2134 or visit their web site at http://rnnk.org.