Bipolar Carers' Support Group

 The carers of those with Bipolar disorder play a major role in helping the ones affected live a near normal life. The care givers need care too and this support group welcomes carers to network once a month and discuss coping strategies for the mental stress they endure. This group is a non-judgemental and safe space to discuss with peer care givers and will be led by a trained facilitator. Each MHFA Support Group is free.

Register

Session 1: Face-to-Face

Bipolar Carers Support Group

Schedule

Every first Thursday of the month

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Mental Health Foundation Australia

How to get there?


Face-to-Face sessions are conducted at the Mental Health Foundation Australia located at G1, 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra VIC 3141.    


If you plan to attend in-person, public transport is the easiest way to access the Wellness Hub. Private parking is available in the area- please be aware of closing times. 

Session 2: Online

Bipolar Carers Support Group

Schedule
Every third Thursday of the month

7:00pm - 8:30pm (Melbourne Time)

Online session

How to attend a online session?


Online sessions are conducted on Zoom.


Meeting Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83814062241?pwd=D9vzD8CMe9MNTCTwbRdgFy21JkYDUg.1


Meeting ID: 838 1406 2241

Passcode: 485177

Trouble accessing Zoom? Click here


Troubleshooting tips for Online Meetings:


  • If you are having trouble connecting you could try clearing your browser cache.
  • There are instructions for this for Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Safari.
  • You could also try restarting the Zoom app on your computer or mobile device.
  • Zoom do offer some technical support with a knowledge base and customer support.


Unfortunately the MHFA can do very little to assist with connection issues as Zoom is a 3rd party application and out of our control.

About Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder involves episodes of extreme mood shifts that range from extreme highs to extreme lows. There are generally three types of episodes that can occur in bipolar disorder: manic phase (extreme high), hypomanic phase (less extreme high) and depressive phase (extreme low). These extremes in mood can make it difficult for individuals to manage everyday tasks such as work, school and maintaining relationships.


Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:


  • Manic episodes: Emotional high, euphoric, impulsive, excited, full of energy, high levels of creativity, unrealistic ideas/plans, easily distracted.
  • Impulsive behaviours such as: spending sprees, unprotected sex, drug use, risky/dangerous behaviours
  • Depressive episodes: Hopelessness, sadness, loss of energy, lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, sleeping problems, suicidal thoughts.

The exact cause of Bipolar Disorder is still unknown; however, it is likely to be a combination of a variety of factors.


Genetics are likely to have a contribution to developing the disorder. Additionally, any abnormalities in the structure or functioning in your brain may also increase your risk.


Furthermore, environmental factors such as extreme stresses and traumatic experiences are also likely to play a role.

Strategies to cope with bipolar disorder


Coping strategies like monitoring your mood, creating a routine, having a healthy sleep cycle, exercising and taking time to relax can help you alleviate the symptoms.



Support group


The ABS reports that approximately 2.9% of the Australian population aged 16 and over have Bipolar Disorder. The carers of those with Bipolar disorder play a major role in helping the ones affected live a near normal life. The care givers need care too and this support group welcomes carers to network once a month and discuss coping strategies for the mental stress they endure. This group is a non-judgemental and safe space to discuss with peer care givers and will be led by a trained facilitator.

Matt Headshot

Matthew Dale, Bipolar Carers' Support Group Facilitator


Matthew Dale has been working for over 17 years in the mental health sector in a variety of different roles including mental health promotion, outreach support, peer work, respite and as a family and carers worker. He was drawn to working in the mental health sector due to his own experience of mental ill health (Bipolar II) and recovery. He is passionate about mental health promotion and the importance that early intervention / prevention can make in helping a person in their unique and individual journey to recovery from mental illness. He believes in empowering individuals to develop self-belief, confidence and hope for a meaningful life despite their mental health challenges. 



Matthew recognises the importance of education in helping a person to stay well and that we can all learn something new from each other. He currently works as a Mental Health Practitioner at a new state funded mental health initiative in South East Melbourne and also volunteers as a Peer Ambassador for SANE Australia. He is on the committee of Bipolar Life and facilitates the Bipolar Carers Support Group through the Mental Health Foundation Australia.