These barriers don’t exist when one has access to the Internet and attends an online peer support group, or groups. Geographic distance is only an abstract concept and you never have to worry about bad weather when you’re getting there. It is always possible to find an occupied support chat somewhere online if you need to talk to someone right away. The group meeting times are flexible and you can attend in your pajamas.

It’s almost always possible to find a mode of communication online with support peers that suits you, since there are so many to choose from. There are email lists and bulletin boards, which allow for thoughtful, deliberate posting. There’s real-time chat, which many people prefer for the immediacy and sense that they are in a room with other people. On my forum members can also have their own blog or online journal, in which they post their thoughts and feelings. Other members can comment on the often intensely personal entries.

The types of interactions you’ll find in an online peer support group are pretty much the same as a face-to-face support group. Some people are seeking information about a disorder or its treatment, many people are giving or receiving emotional support and encouragement and some are venting frustrations about their condition or how it affects their life. Many people are just happy to talk to others who understand what they’re going through.

Although online peer-to-peer support groups are not perfect (I’ll discuss some of the drawbacks in my next blog) they do allow many people to connect with others to share thoughts and feelings about mental illness who would not otherwise do so. Although running a forum for people with depression that is so busy (200-300 posts per day) can be very tiring and time-consuming, I know that it’s filling a need that could not be filled for many members in the real world.

To connect with other individuals dealing with depression, visit our message boards.