AWARE has an established network of 25 support groups, including two online support groups, in rural and urban areas across the country, which are run by our trained volunteers. Support groups welcome people with depression and bipolar disorder as well as carers for people with the illness.
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Mental illness is the single largest cause of ill health and disability in Northern Ireland. NI has higher levels of mental ill health than any other region in the UK - 1 in 5 adults and around 45,000 of children here have a mental health problem at any one time. Living with depression, anxiety or bipolar can be very isolating. It is well known that depression is a common reason for someone to think about their own life.
AWARE's support groups provide an opportunity to meet others going through similar experiences. This peer-led support can help people understand their illness, allow them to speak freely about how they are feeling and makes them realise that they are not alone. Support group members share information, discuss options and support each other to move forward. These safe spaces provide an ongoing support network for people, help them improve and maintain a good level of mental health.