Whether you’re looking for support from peers or want to learn more about depression, online meetings can be a valuable resource. They can help you feel less alone and get the support you need to fight back.
These groups don’t replace in-person therapy or medication, but they can be helpful as a supplement. Always check with your doctor or mental health professional before trying new things suggested by other people.
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Depression Forums
Online meetings for depression can help you to get support without leaving the comfort of your home. They can be particularly beneficial for people who live in rural areas or for those who do not have the time to go to in-person groups.
The forums are a place for you to discuss your symptoms and experiences with other members who are also struggling. They may offer advice that can help you manage your condition and give you encouragement to keep going.
While these forums are an effective way to seek support and share your feelings, they should not replace formal treatment from a mental health professional. It’s important to consult your doctor if you suspect that you have depression. This is especially true if you are experiencing severe symptoms.
Depression Understood
Depression Understood is an online group that offers peer support and a place to discuss the symptoms of depression. It also provides tools for people to learn how to better manage their depressive feelings and make changes in their lives.
A mental illness like depression can be a challenge to deal with, but it is very treatable. Treatment may include psychotherapy or medication.
Symptoms can vary in frequency and severity for each person. They must be persistent and have a negative impact on your life to qualify for a diagnosis of depression.
Often, the symptoms of depression are not just related to your mood but to a number of other factors. For example, if your job isn’t fulfilling or you have a partner who doesn’t understand your feelings, you might be more likely to suffer from depression.
Livewell Foundation
The LiveWell Foundation offers free, easy-to-access online depression support groups. They are led by volunteer peer facilitators with lived experience of depression and resilience, who help individuals recover from symptoms and maintain their wellness.
“Peer-led interventions are proven to be effective in addressing depression,” said Stefanie Glick, LiveWell Foundation director. She says, “We need to find ways to connect people with the resources they need to get better.”
The foundation’s depression support groups are a perfect option for those who aren’t able to attend traditional, community-based meetings or who do not have access to mental health care. Participants can watch a video-based LiveWell meeting from any computer or tablet, at any time.
BetterHelp
Online meetings are a great option for those who cannot attend local support groups due to time or cost constraints. They also provide a safe, supportive environment to connect with others who have similar experiences.
BetterHelp is one of the largest online therapy platforms, with over 24,000 mental health experts. It matches you with a therapist based on your responses to a questionnaire, and you can change counselors at any time.
The platform has a subscription model, which gives you access to a live chat session or phone call with a licensed therapist. The service is backed by banking-grade encryption, so you can rest assured that your communications are secure.
NAMI Connection
If you have depression or another mental health condition and don’t live near a NAMI support group, online meetings might be the right solution. They offer the same benefits as in-person groups, and they’re more flexible.
Groups are led by trained leaders with lived experience, and you can share your experiences and get help from others. They’re free and confidential.
They’re also a great way to get information and resources, and they can help you stay on track with your treatment plan.
NAMI Connection is a peer-led support group for adults who are living with mental illness. It offers respect, understanding, encouragement and hope to those in recovery.