Dealing with a chronic illness, such as depression, can be difficult. That is why it is crucial to seek depression support to control your mood and live your life to the fullest.
In 2020, an estimated 21 million adults in the United States experienced at least one major episode of depression. If you’re one of these people, know that overcoming your unease and joining a support group can be a helpful step toward recovery.
Depression support groups allow people with depression to share their experiences while offering each other empathy, encouragement, and support.
When you can share your stories and struggles with someone who understands, dealing with depression gets easier.
Key Takeaways
Struggling with mental health issues, such as depression, can feel overwhelming. A support group can be an effective option for dealing with symptoms of depression.
Here is what support groups for depression are like:
- A depression support group is a group of people with depression who share their experiences and support each other.
- Support groups for depression can be in-person and online, allowing you to find one nearby or use technology to connect with one.
- The most common support groups for depression include Mental Health America (MHA), NAMI Connection, 7 Cups, and more.
Support groups can be very helpful in managing depression but cannot replace proper medical care. Therefore, if you need professional treatment, contact Indiana Center for Recovery today at (844) 650-0064.
Top 8 Depression Support Groups
A depression support group is a group of people with depression who meet regularly to discuss their experiences, struggles, and ways of coping with symptoms.
Depression groups are best for those already receiving depression treatment from mental health experts. However, these groups can also benefit people who want a more personalized relationship with those in the same situation and can offer support.
The following are some of the best both in-person and online support groups for depression:
Mental Health America (MHA)
Mental Health America (MHA) is an online forum to discuss various mental health issues, including depression. It is open to those with the condition and their family members, friends, and caregivers.
With over 100 categories, members can find a support group that can relate to their specific needs and struggles.
Members can “friend” and message other members and engage in discussion feeds in their specific community. Each community has around-the-clock moderators to ensure that comments are supportive and kind.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a non-profit organization committed to preventing and treating mental health issues like depression.
The ADAA provides a list of support groups for those with mental health conditions. The ADAA lists online and in-person support groups, so people should be able to find one nearby or use technology to connect with one.
In addition to a network of support groups, the ADAA also provides podcasts, webinars, podcasts, books, and pamphlets to help support people’s mental health needs.
7 Cups
7 Cups offers members online support groups, forums, and chat rooms where they may share their experiences with depression, check in daily, and provide support and encouragement.
One-on-one chats are also available around the clock. A network of volunteer listeners who can give emotional support is available through the app and online community.
While 7 Cups offers free online training to listeners, it’s important to remember that volunteers aren’t licensed mental health professionals.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) features helpful resources and help, including over 600 peer-led support groups.
DSBA support groups offer a safe space for those with depression and bipolar disorder to discuss similar experiences and support one another.
While the DBSA connects individuals with local, in-person support networks, many groups will also use online meeting tools, email, and social media to communicate with people to provide information and support.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Connection Recovery Support Group
The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group follows a structured model for people recovering from mental health issues. Trained individuals lead the group and make sure that participants have the opportunity to share their challenges and get support.
NAMI Connection aims to provide hope and a feeling of community. As with any support group, the primary goals are empathy and understanding rather than advice or solutions to problems.
The Tribe
The Tribe offers a variety of tribes to be part of, including depression, addiction, HIV, family, and teen groups. You can join any of the tribes without paying a penny.
Many group members who have suffered from depressive symptoms find this place as a safe haven for them to express their feelings.
You can use chat rooms to share your stories with others and access blogs and other people’s stories side by side.
When you visit ‘Wellness Tree,’ you will find many fun and inspirational activities to participate in that will connect you with others and help you relax.
Depression Understood
Depression Understood provides many options for those with the condition to communicate with others. These options include live chat rooms that are open 24/7 and forums where people can leave messages for others.
In addition, Depression Understood provides the means to help people start writing their blogs.
Turn2Me
Turn2Me was founded by two brothers who lost their third sibling to suicide. They understood the pain and need to speak with someone, so they created this online support group for depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is group therapy good for depression?
Yes, group therapy is very helpful in offering help to cope with depressive thoughts and feelings. In each session, the participants learn specific skills to help themselves feel better and manage their depressive symptoms.
Here is how group therapy for depression can help:
Provides support
Promotes social skills
Increases the sense of hope
Have enough sleep
Provides education about depression and how to manage it
Teaches you about yourself
What helps people cope with depression?
Many effective ways can help people manage their symptoms of depression, promote positive thinking, ease stress, and improve self-confidence.
Here are the seven most effective ways to cope with depression:
Talk to a therapist
Engage in physical activity
Have a healthy diet
Stay involved with friends and family
Have a healthy and regular routine
Join a support group
Say no to alcohol and drugs
Who are the best people to talk to about depression?
If you are dealing with clinical depression, you may be referred to a mental health expert by your doctor. There are various types of mental health experts to talk to about your depression, such as:
Psychologists
Psychiatrists
Licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), such as therapists and clinicians
Advanced practice registered nurses
Licensed professional counselors
Is there a group chat for people with depression?
Yes, there are many support group chat rooms for people dealing with symptoms of depression. These chat rooms are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, but you may find them supportive.
Some of these group chat rooms include the following:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)
Depression Sanctuary
Depression Chat Rooms
HealthUnlocked
Depression Forums
Depression Understood
Indiana Center for Recovery for Your Mental Health
Support groups have been shown to help people with depression find kinship and feel less alone.
However, a support group is not a replacement for medical treatment. If you think a support group is not right for you and need professional help, contact Indiana Center for Recovery.
Indiana Center for Recovery offers a full continuum of care, including residential and outpatient treatment and therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Our treatment program also includes dual diagnosis treatment for those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues simultaneously.
Stop wasting your precious time, and get in touch with us to regain control of your mental health. Call (844) 650-0064 now!