ABOUT US

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the leading patient-directed national organization focusing on the most prevalent mental illnesses. The organization fosters an environment of understanding about the impact and management of these life-threatening illnesses by providing up-to-date, scientifically-based tools and information written in language the general public can understand. DBSA supports research to promote more timely diagnosis, develop more effective and tolerable treatments and discover a cure. The organization works to ensure that people living with mood disorders are treated equitably.

DBSA-Charlotte is one of nearly 1,000 patient-run support groups across the country, serving about 70,000 people. Support groups play an important role as 86 percent of support group members reporting that their group helped them further their overall Recovery.  This is a key finding because it translated to mean fewer hospital stays, which in turn means lower insurance costs, greater employee productivity and significantly increased quality of life.

 

Our Mission

The mission of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is to provide hope, help, and support to improve the lives of people living with depression or bipolar disorder. DBSA pursues and accomplishes this mission through peer-based, recovery-oriented, empowering services and resources when people want them, where they want them, and how they want them.

 

Why We Exist

DBSA was founded in 1985 as Depressive and Manic Depressive Association (MD2), however changed its name in 1987 to Depression Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). DBSA-Charlotte serves as a strong peer led support system for Mecklenburg County. DBSA's support groups provide an environment where you will find comfort and direction in a confidential and supportive setting, and where you can make a difference in the lives of others. At DBSA-Charlotte we hope to help you no longer feel alone, have a please to be heard, share new ideas and find resources along your Recovery journey.