R.E.A.C.H. SUPPORT Group

Do you have depression or bipolar disorder?

Are you looking for strategies to manage your illness & wellbeing?

R.E.A.C.H SUPPORT GROUP Might be for you!

R.E.A.C.H is a FREE 9-week educational support group program for individuals with a mood disorder, developed by the Black Dog Institute. R.E.A.C.H is suitable for individuals over 18, who have lived with a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder for at least one year. Eligible participants will also need to demonstrate:

• Capacity to participate in a group setting
• Commitment to attend 9 weekly sessions
• Acceptance of their illness
• Motivation to implement ‘stay well’ strategies

Topics include: Fostering strengths, dealing with loss & grief, identifying early warning signs & triggers, nurturing wellbeing & support networks, & creating a unique ‘Stay Well Plan’.

To be eligible for the group, participants should be:

• Over 18 years old
• Diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder, for a minimum of one year
• Capacity to participate in a group setting
• Capacity to commit to attending the 9 weekly sessions
• Acceptance of illness
• Motivation to implement personal change strategies

DATES : Monday 14th October - 9 December, 2013

TIME : 7pm - 9pm

WHERE: Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury, 4 Park Avenue, Gordon

FACILITATORS: Simone Isemann and Gabrielle Waters-McKay

MORE INFO : Simone or Gabrielle on (02) 9498 8805 or email appointments@lifelineh2h.com

TO APPLY: Register your interest at appointments@lifelineh2h.com or call (02) 9498 8805

The group is facilitated by 2 psychologists and can accommodate a maximum of 12 participants.

The running of this free group at Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury is made possible by the sponsorship received from Turramurra Community Bank Branch of the Bendigo Bank and Ku-ring-gai Council.

• Do you know, love or care for someone experiencing depression?
• Did you know those who love, care for or support people with depression can experience significant stress and are themselves at greater risk of developing mental health problems?
• Would you be interested in finding out more about a program shown to be effective in supporting the partners, family members and friends of people with depression?

Partners in Depression is a six week group program that aims to address the information and support needs of those who live with or love someone experiencing depression.

The program covers a range of topics including:

What is depression Treatments for depression Suicidality and self harm How do you best support someone with depression Communication strategies

The program is run by health professionals and provides a forum in which to receive information and ask questions about depression and your support role, with others with similar experiences.

Partners in Depression is now being run locally in Gordon - register your interest today!

Program details:

Commences:TBC

Location: 4 Park Avenue, Gordon

Cost: $150

Register your interest on 02 9498 8805 or email appointments@lifelineh2h.com