Depression And Bipolar Support Alliance

Grass roots and peer services-through advocacy efforts dbsa amplifies the voices of those living with mood disorders and works toward systemic change in the delivery and quality of mental health care. Dbsa works with over 385 support groups across 80+ local chapters and 9 state organizations to offer vital services to our community. It hosts 34 national online support groups weekly, with 88% of post-meeting participants feeling more hopeful and 83% learning new strategies for managing their mood disorder. Dbsa launched its 3rd cohort of the peer apprentice program, designed to help veterans and individuals from marginalized communities of color overcome financial and professional barriers while pursuing the illinois crss-il peer credential. This yearlong initiative includes dbsa's peer course, professional mentorship, and internships at local social service organizations, enabling participants to accumulate the 2,000 hours required for the credential exam application. Dbsa works with the fda, medical product developers,researchers, and regulatory decision-makers to educate on treatment options for those lving with mood disorders. Finally, dbsa has established a prestigious 45-member scientific advisory board (sab) to support program achievements through presentations at dbsa conferences, authorship of peer-reviewed manuscripts, and media representation.