Bipolar Significant others mailing list www.bpso.org
Besides providing useful information and links for family, partners and friends of a person with bipolar disorder, this website gives caregivers the opportunity to communicate and share experiences with others in similar situations. Although this website is based in the USA, it has members all over the world.
Families for Depression Awareness www.familyaware.org
Families for Depression Awareness (FFDA) assists families to recognize and cope with depressive disorders and prevent suicides. FFDA offers brochures, educational seminars, online support groups, resources, and advocacy to support families with depression.
Family to family education program for caregivers (National Alliance on Mental Illness) www.nami.org
Information helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
Mailing address: NAMI, Colonial Place Three, 2107 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22201-3042
This large organization offers information, advocacy and support in every state in the US. NAMI run a family –to family education program for caregivers of people with mental illness including bipolar disorder that is available in the USA, parts of Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Initial evaluation of this program suggests that it can reduce caregiver worry and displeasure and increase caregivers’ sense of empowerment.
International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF) www.internationalbipolarfoundation.org
This organization is dedicated to enhancing care and support services for those affected by bipolar disorder, encouraging helpful research and public education. The IBPF website includes information on bipolar disorder, how to get help, treatment, educational brochures and videos, news about the latest international research and international resources. There are also forums for people with bipolar disorder and family members and there is a list of other support groups. Their E-newsletter is aimed at keeping family members up to date with bipolar news, research and events.
National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) www.thefamilycaregiver.org This is a national organization that seeks to inform, support and empower caregivers of people with all types of diagnoses. You can find information on legal and financial issues, insurance, respite and many other concerns of caregivers. They offer screening test and helpful resources for caregivers who experience depression: www.nfcacares.org/improving_caregiving/depression_screener.cfm.
There is also information on how stress affects people and a quiz for you to check your stress levels: www.mentalhealthamerica.net/llw/stressquiz.html
