When I was in the middle of a deep depression six years ago, going to my local bipolar support group meetings was the best thing I did for myself.  With advice, support and encouragement from group members, I found help in the mental health community and gradually got myself together.  I still go to meetings regularly in order to maintain my own balance and help others.

Yet whenever I recommend going to bipolar support group meetings, I invariably hear from someone who lives in an area where...