We are an independent chapter of the National Depression and Bipolar and Support Alliance (DBSA).

We are ALL peers: people living with depression, bipolar and other mental health challenges. We are not here as licensed professionals. Our mission is to assist, encourage and enable each other in our own individual pursuit of wellness.

For meeting concerns, contact dbsaportlandmemberliaison@gmail.com

Sharing

One person speaks at a time until they are finished. We don’t interrupt or hold side conversations.
We are mindful of how often we talk so that others can share as well.
We avoid sharing details that may be triggering or activating to others.
We do not share specific medication names.
Our meetings are designed to give everyone an opportunity to participate as they are comfortable. If you do not want to share, that’s ok.

Confidentiality

Who you see here and what is said here stays here.

Peers and Equals

All people are welcome here.
We treat each other as equals with respect, compassion and acceptance.
We believe that each person in this room follows their own unique path to wellness and knows what is best for their mental health along with their provider’s recommendations.
We value the shared wisdom of others’ lived experience.
We don’t give advice. Instead, we speak from our experience about what has helped us.

Suicidal thoughts and feelings

We acknowledge that suicidal thoughts and emotions can be part of our recovery journey.
We want to ensure that we maintain a safe space for everyone to share, including saving space to share emotions around suicide.
We believe that not saving space to talk about those thoughts and feelings perpetuates self-stigma, embarrassment and shame.
In our meetings, we may have brief discussions about suicide.
We want to reinforce that everyone should practice self-care and participate in, as little or as much as they are comfortable.