These are the four key elements of our support group:

1. Focus on self-help based on certain assumptions:

• Each person has the ability to make appropriate use of available resources to meet her or his own needs. Some people may utilize this ability more fully than others, but it is present in everyone.

• All of us together know more than any one of us. Everyone has value and has something to add to a group process.

Each person is the ultimate authority on what s/he needs and on what will work for her or him.

2. Peer-led

Discussion at support group meetings is facilitated by a group participant, and this is important to the group’s smooth functioning. The group facilitator guides discussion, provides focus to the group and helps ensure that the group’s guidelines are followed.

3. Safe & accepting

Participants make the support group a safe place by fostering a supportive, trustworthy, respectful, non-judgmental and nurturing atmosphere. All those attending share experiences that can help others live successfully with anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. People use information they’ve gained from others at the meeting and the mental health professionals they work with to make their own judgments about correct strategies for themselves.

4. Confidential

Open and honest communication is important to a positive group experience. Support groups operate on the premise that “What we say here, stays here.” No one may publicly reveal information about the people attending the group or what is said during a meeting. Exceptions to this policy are made only when the safety of an individual is in danger. Participants are not required to provide personal contact information.