The Support Group Idea

The facilitator cautioned that what worked for one person wouldn't necessarily work for another, and that discussions about meds would be kept to a minimum in the groups. "It's not our expertise. You need to know that it often takes a long time to find the right medicine, but that's something for you to discuss with your pscychopharmacologist."

The facilitator told something of her own story, too, and that was helpful. Fifteen years ago, she had been so depressed that she took to her bed and contemplated suicide. She got to the peer counseling center, which got her to a psychiatrist. She came to the groups and now, all these years later, she was clearly a functioning woman who could help others.

Knowing that there are people like myself was very reassuring.

Knowing that there is an organization that is open every week to helping me come to terms with my illness.

Knowing that there is a three-legged stool on which to rest.

All that is very reassuring.

C.L.