Bipolar Support Group

(Face-to-Face)

The ABS reports that approximately 2.9% of the Australian population aged 16 and over have Bipolar Disorder. The Bipolar Disorder support groups discusses a wide variety of topics that affect the lives of the attendees.

The purpose of our support group is to provide an opportunity for people living with bipolar disorder to connect with other diagnosed people with similar experiences. Group members gain strength and support from each other, and learn new ways of coping through sharing feelings, knowledge, information and ideas. This support group is for people affected with Bipolar Disorder.

Note: This group is not provided for carers, this group is only for consumers affected with bipolar disorder.

From workplaces, medications, family, friends and relationships. This group is a non-judgemental and safe space to discuss coming to terms with Bipolar Disorder and how you live a happy and productive life. This support group is led by a trained facilitator with lived experience of Bipolar Disorder. Each MHFA Support Group is free.

Please note that this Bipolar Support Group is face-to-face only. If you are looking to attend a ONLINE bipolar support group meeting, visit the link below:

Online Bipolar Support Groups Meetings (runs twice every month): https://www.bipolarlife.org.au/online/

Women's Online Bipolar Support Group: https://www.bipolarlife.org.au/womens-online/

For Online Mood Disorders Group, visit here: https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/mood-disorders-support-group-online

Join the Face-to-Face Bipolar Support Group

Schedule

Every second Wednesday 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.

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 Bipolar Disorder support groups discusses a wide variety of topics that affect the lives of the attendees. From workplaces, medications, family, friends and relationships. This group is a non-judgemental and safe space to discuss coming to terms with Bipolar Disorder and how you live a happy and productive life. This support group is led by a trained facilitator with lived experience of Bipolar Disorder.

Sarita Maizel, Bipolar Support Group Facilitator

Sarita facilitates the Bipolar Support Groups. Having been diagnosed with Bipolar 7 years ago, she finds these peer groups extremely therapeutic. She is highly skilled and competent when hypomanic, not so much at other times. She has done extensive research, reading and study on Bipolar and other mental illness. But then again, she has done so with Yoga, Ballroom dancing and Bee keeping... Emotionally mature and compassionate she creates a safe space that make hers groups fun and engaging. In 2006, she moved to Melbourne from the French part of Canada.